Teachers, coaches and principals are usually the ones who are handing out the trophies to kids. Teachers don’t expect an award for what they do, but in some cases there is no better person that deserves a trophy. When a principal is able to inspire a student and raise over $1 million for her students, she deserves a trophy more than anyone.
Brandon Stanton, the photographer behind “Humans of New York” proved to us how much one principal in particular deserves a trophy. Stanton asked Vidal Chastanet, a 13-year-old boy from Brooklyn, what person influenced him the most in his life. Chastanet let the world know how much his principal, Ms. Lopez, inspired him.
“When we get in trouble, she doesn’t suspend us,” Chastanet told Caroline Moss in an interview for Business Insider. “She calls us to her office and explains to us how society was built down around us. And then she tells us that each time somebody fails out of school, a new jail cell gets built. And one time she made every student stand up, one at a time, and she told each one of us that we matter.”
Lopez was trying to raise money in order for her students to take a trip to Harvard University. She wanted the students to realize this is a real option for them, and they need to keep their eyes on their future. When Stanton’s photo and story went viral, the photographer joined the cause and raised $700,000 in just FOUR days to go toward Lopez’s Harvard trip. Thanks to Stanton and Lopez, the students of Brownsville, Brooklyn, will be able to make a yearly visit to Harvard University for the next 10 years.
What we love
Here at Trophy Central we love recognizing inspirational teachers. We believe educators are some of the most amazing people. We are enchanted at the impact these people can have on children and the way they are able to turn any one child’s life around. There is no better award than knowing you are able to affect someone’s life in such a positive way.
All of us at Trophy Central wholeheartedly believe that Principal Lopez’ impact on Chastanet is most definitely trophy-worthy!
Nadia Lopez you have won, not only the hearts of your students, but also the hearts of us at Trophy Central. We can only hope people will get inspired to be the best they can be and do a fraction of what you are accomplishing. Brandon Stanton, you have also won our hearts and appreciation. We are so happy there are people in this world like you!
What inspirational teachers have influenced YOU? Comment below and connect with us on social media using the hashtag #ShowUsYourSue to tell us who has inspired you and why. We will share our favorite inspirational stories, giving someone the recognition they deserve! And, to learn more about our Random Acts of Trophy-ness: Show Us Your Sue campaign to celebrate everyday heroes who inspire, read on HERE!