'Truly Humbling': TPHS Teacher A Finalist In 'Heroes Of The Classroom'
TINLEY PARK, IL — A Bremen District 228 teacher is in the running for $5,000, and a matching prize for the high school where she teaches, as a finalist in a nationwide contest sponsored by Kleenex.
Lauren Brazel, Special Education teacher at Tinley Park High School, would also receive a year’s supply of Kleenex tissues for the school, if she is voted winner of the Heroes of the Classroom contest.
“This prestigious contest celebrates exceptional teachers who make a profound impact on their students and communities by fostering strength, creating positive change, and inspiring future generations,” Bremen District 228 said in a release. “… We’re hoping to rally our local community to get behind this remarkable teacher.”
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In her entry, Brazel spoke poignantly of what drew her to special education. In her 19th yearin education, Brazel has worked within Bremen District 228 for nine years, having first started at Oak Forest High School. She shifted to Tinley Park High School four years ago.
“… I am passionate about making sure every student feels seen, heard and recognized for their efforts both in and out of the classroom,” she wrote. “I celebrate even the smallest wins and build connections with both my students and their families. Being able to build those long-lasting relationships is what makes this job amazing. We hope students will retain the information that we have taught them, but we know that they will always remember how they were treated.”
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The public will cast online votes for their select finalist of the top 10. Voting is open now through Oct. 11, and each unique email vote helps move Brazel one step closer to winning.
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“Winning the 10k would be an amazing contribution for both our school and my family,” Brazel wrote. “We have so many students that would be able to benefit from this money. We could use the money to acquire additional supplies that will help our students grow academically and also save some to have a little bit of fun with. Our students would be incredibly appreciative and deserve everything that comes their way.”
On a personal level, Brazel said she would use the money for much-needed financial support for her family, in the midst of medical stressors.
Brazel and husband Ryan have three children: 8-year-old twins Frankie and Charlie, and 10-year-old daughter Molly. Frankie was born with the effects of twin-twin transfusion syndrome. The syndrome is a rare pregnancy condition affecting identical twins or other multiples, and occurs in pregnancies where twins share one placenta, and a network of blood vessels that supply oxygen and nutrients essential for development in the womb, according to Johns Hopkins. One twin — known as the donor twin — gives away more blood than it receives in return and runs the risk of malnourishment and organ failure. The recipient twin receives too much blood and is susceptible to overwork of the heart and other cardiac complications.
The twins were born two months early, Brazel said. Frankie was diagnosed as the donor twin. His most significant diagnosis is that of a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Three years ago, Brazel and her husband placed him on palliative care. They are currently building an addition to their home, to create a space for Frankie that will simplify his movement throughout the home, and allow easier access to provide him care.
“We fight very hard for him,” Brazel said. “We fight for all of our kids, but he’s really changed the trajectory of our lives and how we choose to live them. It definitely makes you look at things a little bit differently.”
Doctors have said there’s no exact prognosis or lifespan for Frankie. It could range from a year, to 10 years, Brazel said.
“There’s no rhyme or reason,” she said.
“Since we put him on end of life care, he’s being doing phenomenally. It’s a day-by-day thing.”
Frankie is her inspiration behind her work.
“Frankie is the reason I come to school each day, and why I have such a positive outlook,” she said. “My husband and I are the sole providers for Frankie’s care, and this money will assist with creating a comfortable room for him in his final years. Currently, we each work two jobs on separate schedules to provide these extras for Frankie. This money will allow us to spend some additional time together as a family.”
Making it this far in the contest means so much to her.
“My principal nominated me, and I was very unaware,” Brazel said of Principal Theresa Nolan. “We have unbelievable administration here who support us, that’s the best for me. You’ve got an awesome support system here.”
While hopeful for a win, she’s grateful to be appreciated.
“While winning the money would be amazing, the recognition for what we do in the classroom is what means the most,” she said. “This is an incredible win-win opportunity for our Titan Family and my own family. It is truly a humbling experience.”
Find out more about Brazel, and cast your vote online.
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