Roselle Park Public Schools Educator Nominated for National LifeChanger of the Year Award
February 24, 2025 –Roselle Park, NJ– Ernest J. Finizio Elementary School primary teacher Dina Cashin has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2024-25 LifeChanger of the Year award. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, 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.
Cashin was nominated by an anonymous member of the community for making an impact on students beyond academics. Known for creating a safe and nurturing environment, she inspires her students with engaging lessons and personalized support. Her classroom is a vibrant space where students feel loved, respected, and encouraged to grow socially and emotionally.
Cashin’s dedication extends beyond teaching—she ensures every child has the resources they need, often going above and beyond to help students from economically challenged homes. Her strong relationships with parents and fellow educators highlight her positive influence in the school community.
"Her enthusiasm, kindness, and commitment to her students make her a deserving candidate for LifeChanger of the Year," said the nominator.
About LifeChanger of the Year
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,500 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts. The program has awarded over $790,000 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.
Each school year, LifeChanger of the Year receives hundreds of nominations from all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Seventeen individual LifeChanger of the Year awards will be given during the 2024-2025 school year.
- (1) Grand Prize Winner – will receive $10,000 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 comprised of former winners and education professionals and will be announced in early 2025. 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 Cashin’s nominee profile. If you're interested in nominating someone from your school community, visit www.LifeChangeroftheYear.com.