Mariah Perez
Rio Vista Elementary
Education Specialist
Rio Vista Elementary School education specialist Mariah Perez 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.
Perez was nominated by the parent of a student, Marlene Galaviz, for her student dedication to students and advocacy for inclusion, including for those with special needs. She is humble, kind, consistent in her teaching, and supportive of her students, school, and parents.
Perez helps students in any way she can, whether by coaching the cheering team or selflessly providing resources for her classroom. She is completely committed to all that she does.
"Ms. Perez has personally given both of my children encouragement, building up their self-esteem and showing them that they can accomplish anything they set their minds to,” said Galaviz. “I am impressed with her ability to create relationships with each family and really know each student so well. Ms. Perez continues to find new ways to evolve. I am forever grateful.”
Visit this link to read Perez’s nominee profile https://app.lifechangeroftheyear.com/nomination_detail.cfm?NominationID=26699&NominationYear=2025
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.