LUMBERTON – L. Gilbert Carroll Middle School social worker Tammy Maynor has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award. National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Maynor was nominated by her principal, Thomas Jones, for her extraordinary compassion, perseverance, and life-changing impact on students and families. A trusted advocate and tireless problem-solver, Maynor supports students through grief, trauma, and unmet basic needs while connecting families to critical resources. Her work has led to measurable improvements in student attendance, behavior, and engagement, making her an essential pillar of support within the school community.
Beyond individual interventions, Maynor plays a vital role in shaping a culture of empathy and safety across the school. She leads trauma-informed practices, collaborates closely with educators and administrators, mentors fellow social workers, and advocates for policies that prioritize student mental health and wellness. Known for her calm presence in moments of crisis and unwavering commitment to students’ dignity and well-being, Maynor consistently empowers students to heal, grow, and thrive.
“Ms. Maynor doesn't just change lives—she restores them. She is a LifeChanger in every sense of the word,” said Jones.
About LifeChanger of the Year
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $850,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
(1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(4) Grand Prize Finalists – will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(10) LifeChanger Award Winners – will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spirit Award Winner – This award is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
(1) Spotlight Award Winner – This award is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year. The winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Winners are chosen by a selection committee composed of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2026. Nominees must be K-12 teachers or school district employees. To be considered for an award, nominees must:
Make a positive impact on the lives of students
Enhance their school or district’s atmosphere, culture, and pride
Demonstrate exemplary leadership at the school and/or district level
Possess a proven record of professional excellence
Show commitment to building a nurturing environment that supports learning
Adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards
A resource page with ideas for how to celebrate nominees can be found at http://lifechangeroftheyear.com/showspirit/.
Visit here to read Maynor’s nominee profile. If you're interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.
This press release was written and provided by LifeChanger of the Year Communications, and shared with permission.