Marcia Kessler, technology integration and data specialist at Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, has been nominated for the 2015-2016 national LifeChanger of the Year award.

Sponsored by the National Life Group Foundation, the LifeChanger of the Year program recognizes and rewards the best kindergarten through 12th grade public and private school educators and employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence and leadership.

Kessler was nominated by her friend Travis Ouellette.

Kessler said she believes in the power of technology in education. She educates staff and students about technology such as Google Classroom, Google Apps and Prezi. Throughout her career, Kessler has worked to ensure a smooth transition from one data management software platform to another, and she makes certain that data submitted to the state meets all the standards and requirements.

“She does so much more than technology integration and data reporting,” said Ouellette. “Formerly a librarian, Kessler is someone the students can confide in, and they view her as one of their own.”

In addition to her duties as an administrator, Kessler serves as secondary advisor for the yearly student council conference and works with the Gay-Straight Alliance and the Non-Traditional clubs.

Each school year, the LifeChanger of the Year program receives hundreds of nominations. For 2015-2016, a total of 16 winners will be chosen by the selection committee to receive cash awards that are split between the individual winner and their school. The national Grand Prize award is $10,000. The top five winners will also be honored at a national awards ceremony.

Winners will be announced in spring 2016.