McNary Heights Elementary School teacher Tricia Lorence is in the running for a National LifeChanger of the Year Award.

A Heppner High School graduate, Lorence attended Western Oregon State College and Eastern Oregon State College with plans to enter the field of education. However, before completing her degree, she determined she didn’t want to become a teacher and ended up dropping out. Working a variety of jobs, including in banking, agricultural services and bookkeeping, Lorence credits Heidi Sipe, Umatilla School District superintendent, with a life-changing event.

“She would encourage me to finish my bachelor’s degree so that I could substitute teach,” Lorence said. “The morning after receiving my restricted teaching license, I was called to sub.”

She continued as a substitute teacher throughout the school year. However, Lorence was still unsure, saying it took the entire summer for people to convince her that the classroom is where she belonged. Starting out as a fourth grade teacher in 2016, Lorence has taught third grade ever since.

Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, the LifeChanger awards honor top educators and school district employees across the United States. Award winners are recognized for making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership. A total of 18 individual awards are presented across the nation, which includes cash prizes to be shared with the winner’s school district.

Lorence was nominated for the award by Charlotte Engelhart, one of her colleagues. Sipe said that makes it truly special.

“It’s amazing to see staff noticing each other’s work and taking the time to recognize extra effort,” the superintendent said.

In her nomination letter, Engelhart said Lorence not only champions her students, but also her fellow educators and the school’s classified staff. She said Lorence helps in creating a feeling of family among the building’s staff. Sipe agreed, saying Lorence goes above and beyond with both her students and co-workers.

Lorence expressed surprise at the nomination. While she’s appreciative of the positive feedback, Lorence said she doesn’t seek recognition from others — she merely wants to do the best she can.

“My job is to make sure all of my students are safe and loved,” she said. “My other job is to make sure that every staff member feels important and valued.”

A realist, Lorence said teaching is hard. Many nights, she said, she’s exhausted when her head finally hits the pillow. However, once morning comes, Lorence is ready and excited for another day in the classroom. And that attitude, Engelhart said, is one of the reasons why she nominated Lorence for the award.

“Mrs. Lorence lights up her school building with her smile,” Engelhart said, “and intense commitment to making a difference in the lives of her students.”