Tina Hill, a graduate of St. Regis School District, was nominated for the 2017-2018 National Life Group LifeChanger of the Year award for her tireless efforts on behalf of students and staff of St. Regis School district.

Hill became an employee at the school seven years ago during a time of stress and turmoil.

According to superintendent Joe Steele, Hill has brought with her a calming, professional spirit that brought reassurance to the staff, superintendent, school board and community. Her knowledge of accounting and professionalism instilled confidence in the administrative team. She is a vital thread in the district’s fabric as a parent, staff member and community member.

“As I am a new superintendent, Hill has demonstrated patience and guidance with me, even when my imaginative budget coding frustrated her,” Steele said.

Staff members at St. Regis admire and appreciate Hill’s efforts on behalf of the school and students.

“Ms. Hill has been an integral part of this community and school her whole life,” said Timberly Kelly, a teacher from the district. “She takes great pride in the school, and its progressive atmosphere is due to her positive attitude and care for the school, its students, and employees. She is friendly to all and maintains a high degree of professionalism in all she does. Her morals and ethics are exemplary and above reproach. She is knowledgeable and willing to share her knowledge and time in a very unselfish manner. We truly appreciate Ms. Hill here at St. Regis Schools.”

Without her dedication to the school, her commitment to excellence, and willingness to nurture and guide the leadership team, the district would not have made the gains it has, nor as quickly as it has. The respect and trust that now exists between the stakeholders is largely due to her moral and ethical standards and visibility in the community. She has truly helped change the atmosphere and the attitude throughout the district.

Carol Young, a school board trustee, credits Hill for the district’s remarkable change as well.

“Ms. Hill’s work ethic and spirit of cooperation have made my job as a trustee much easier,” said Young. “Her commitment to the school and the students is obvious. When collecting information for the board, she is careful, thorough and shows strong attention to detail. I have confidence that the work she does is being done with a high degree of professionalism. She is the backbone of our team. She saves the district and the board time, money and gives us the peace of mind that we are doing the best we can for our kids.”

When she is not in the office, Hill can be found in the stands cheering on St. Regis students in athletic and other extra-curricular events. She has assisted the Business Professionals of America and FFA chapter advisors with their respective programs and lent her expertise to the students who serve in various positions. She is also a devoted member of the St. Regis Friends and Neighbors of St. Regis School (F.A.N. Club), spending many hours planning events, creating posters and buttons and other trinkets for parents and fans of student athletes and clubs. Hill has hosted prom dinners, helped primp girls’ hair and dresses, and provided photos for students. She is a tireless advocate for the school, students and staff.

“Not once have I seen her turn a student away who was in need. She makes herself available to both students and staff to support them as needed,” Steele said.

“I personally appreciate her humbleness and her sense of humor,” Steele said. “She is always available to bounce ideas and concerns off of and provides guidance on policy and budget matters. She is a trusted and valued member of the leadership team. Her contributions to the District go above and beyond her job description. She truly has changed the lives of students and staff and the culture of this District.”

Community members can show their support for Hill’s nomination by going on line at LifeChangeroftheYear.com, click Nominees, click 2017-2018, then find Montana on the right margin and selecting it. Comments of support can be left at the bottom of her page. You can also submit video and pictures as well.

LifeChanger of the Year is an annual program sponsored by National Life Group that recognizes and rewards K-12 educators and school employees across the country.