Eastvale – Priscilla Grijalva, school counselor at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, has been selected as a 2021-22 national LifeChanger of the Year award winner.
LifeChanger of the Year is an annual program sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation that recognizes and rewards outstanding K-12 educators and school district employees who have demonstrated a proven ability to make a beneficial difference in the lives of students.
Ms. Grijalva was selected out of more than 850 nominations across the country to receive one of five top awards and a $5,000 cash prize, half of which will be awarded as a donation to Roosevelt High School. She was surprised with the award on Wednesday by National Life Group representatives during a celebratory senior signing day event in front of more than 2,000 students, faculty, and administrators.
Ms. Grijalva was nominated by a student who collected testimonials from over 75 students, alumni, parents, colleagues, and members of the community who have worked closely with her. Collectively, they painted a picture of a passionate student advocate whose drive for helping students reach their potential and chase their dreams is unparalleled. Ms. Grijalva works tirelessly to support students - especially those who are underprivileged or first-generation college applicants - raising awareness of scholarships and financial aid, leading them through the intricate college application process, and exposing them to new opportunities.
Students who shared their stories of Ms. Grijalva’s impact included one who planned to work at a grocery store until Ms. Grijalva convinced him to apply to college, another who is pursuing a degree in school counseling to follow in Ms. Grijalva’s footsteps, and a third who was connected to a therapist by Ms. Grijalva who now says she saved his life.
“We saw how Ms. Grijalva believed in us,” a former student said. “We saw how she never gave up on our dreams. Our school is now breaking financial aid and college commitment records. Ms. Grijalva not only inspires us to reach higher, but to be better. She gives so many people hope. Ms. Grijalva, thank you so much for changing so many lives. In my book, you have always been the best school counselor in the world. From the bottom of my heart and countless others, thank you."
To read more about Ms. Grijalva, visit her LifeChanger of the Year profile here.
About LifeChanger of the Year
Each year, the LifeChanger of the Year program receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
To be considered for an award, nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees who make a positive difference in the lives of students. Award winners are selected based on the following criteria:
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Make a positive impact in the lives of students
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Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture and pride
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Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
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Possess a proven record of professional excellence
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Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
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Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
To learn more, visit www.lifechangeroftheyear.com.