Kim Laird was described by a former student as “a once in a generation teacher.”

It was one of scores of testimonials about Laird, an eighth grade language arts teacher at Panther Valley Junior/Senior High School, given by present and former students, co-workers and acquaintances that resulted in national recognition for Laird.

On Friday, during a class assembly program, she was honored with a prestigious “Lifechanger Award” by the National Life Group, a Montpelier, Vermont organization that recognizes teachers for “making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership.”

Every year National Life Group selects teachers from across the nation for the prestigious honor, which includes a plaque and a cash award.

Laird was selected from a list of 585 nominations which came from every state in the nation, said Patricia Ebbert, principal of the Panther Valley Junior/Senior High School.

The presentation was made by Lorne G. Hammond, of Media, Delaware County, representing the National Life Group Foundation.

A total of 135 letters were sent to the foundation on behalf of Laird.

Chuck Shuck, who was her student nearly three decades ago, labeled her the “once in a generation teacher” and continued in his note to the panel, “Kim teaches in one of the poorest school districts in the state of Pennsylvania, but you would never know that by the quality of students that walk out of her classrooms.”

Laird is a longtime teacher at Panther Valley and said she will be retiring at the end of next year.

It was noted during the award presentation that Laird is involved in many other activities at the school including a juggling club and theater. She is the English-Language-Arts Department Chair for the English department, chorus director, yearbook co-chair, Culture Fest adviser and homebound instructor.

She does after-school tutoring, before-school mentoring and, during the COVID-19 crisis when in-class learning was on hold, she went to homes of students needing scholastic assistance.

Although the school was informed weeks ago that Laird received the award, it was kept a secret from her until the presentation last Friday. At that time, Ebbert called all eighth-grade students to the auditorium where the surprise announcement occurred. The students responded with a long, robust round of applause.

David McAndrew, superintendent of schools, told her, “Mrs. Laird, you are not merely an instructor, but a beacon of inspiration, guidance and unwavering support. Your dedication to the Panther Valley students’ growth and success has been unwavering, and your passion for teaching has ignited a flame within each of us.”

He said, “Through your tireless efforts, you have transformed mere students into lifelong learners, empowering them to reach new heights of knowledge and understanding.”

“Beyond the curriculum, you have taught invaluable life lessons,” he said. “You have shown your students the importance of integrity, empathy and perseverance.”

A large banner proclaiming Laird as a “Lifechanger” was held by high school seniors River Knoblauch and David McAndrew III.

Hammond, when he presented Laird with award, said she was receiving it “because you’ve helped raise the expectations of life.” He said. “Leadership is tantamount to success in life and you’ve displayed that leadership.”

Examples of the letters written on behalf of Laird include:

Jennifer Maynard - “She is positive and encouraging and it is appreciated by her students as well as her colleagues,” adding, “She is driven and passionate about her calling as an educator and this positively impacts her students.”

Kimberly Fleming - “She goes above and beyond her students and cares for them beyond measure. She is an asset to our community and the kids who were taught by her are blessed to have such a dedicated individual.”

Tina Middleton - “Kim is one of the most amazing, caring and supportive teachers I know. She has been a positive impact in mine and my son’s life. She has helped my son excel in his education.”

Former student Andrew Galgoci - “Kim helped me break out of my shell, fostered in me a love of performing and really helped shape the person I am today.”

Kelly Bauer - “Ms. Laird is by far the best of the best!.”