Andy Anderson is in the running for a national award.

Last month, the Barrington Middle School Principal learned that he had been nominated for the 2022-23 National LifeChanger of the Year award. Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, the award 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.”

BMS guidance counselor Stephanie Nary nominated Anderson for the award.

"He has a wonderful sense of humor, which is comforting during difficult times, and he's thoughtful in each and every interaction he has with parents, students, and colleagues," said Nary. "Our school is lucky to have him."

Anderson said he was honored by the nomination.

“I read the nomination, what Stephanie said, and it was very humbling. It was a humbling experience,” Anderson said. 

Anderson said the kind words from Nary offered a strong endorsement for the work being done at the middle school to support the educators there. He said that when the faculty feel good about the work they are doing it will resonate with the students. 

Anderson said the students and staff at Barrington Middle School have been working hard to find ways to manage the ever-growing challenges they face each day. He said the first step they take is to identify all the challenges, then organize them, and finally prioritize them. 

“That has been a big school focus,” he said. 

The approach is working. In recent years, Barrington Middle School has won two National Blue Ribbons, the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. Department of Education. 

Anderson is a home-grown success story. He grew up in Barrington, attended Barrington Public Schools, and has worked in the district for a number of years. For the last 11 years, Anderson has served as the principal of Barrington Middle School. 

“I always knew I wanted to be a teacher,” Anderson said. “I had some amazing teachers going through the Barrington Public School system. I was able to see their impact…”

While working as a teacher, Anderson recognized the important role each school’s principal played — with the teachers, the students, and with the rest of the community. 

He said it has been a special experience being a student, teacher and principal in the same school district. 

“The greatest part of this job is the people, our community,” Anderson said, “from the students who come to school ready to learn each day, parents who have placed education as a priority, and our teachers. They are the most talented teachers …”

To be considered for the LifeChanger of the Year award, an individual must make a positive impact in 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; and adhere to the highest moral and ethical standards.

Award winners are chosen by a selection committee comprised of former winners and education professionals.