Flower City School No. 54 music teacher earns national recognition with LifeChanger of the Year award nomination

Rochester, New York – A longtime music teacher at Flower City School No. 54 is receiving national recognition for his dedication to students and his lasting impact on school culture. Zach Arenz, a music educator and the 2024 New York State Teacher of the Year, has been nominated for the prestigious LifeChanger of the Year Award, an honor that highlights exceptional K–12 educators and school employees across the country.

The LifeChanger of the Year Award recognizes individuals who go above and beyond their job descriptions to positively influence students’ lives. Nominees are selected for their leadership, commitment to student well-being, and ability to create meaningful change within their schools and communities. Thousands of educators nationwide have been recognized by the program since it began in 2011.

Arenz was nominated by his friend Louise Smith, who cited his compassion, creativity, and unwavering focus on students as the reasons he stands out among educators. Over more than a decade in the classroom, Arenz has built a reputation for connecting with students through music while also supporting their emotional and personal growth.

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“For his transformational impact, exemplary leadership, and steadfast commitment to ethical, student-centered teaching, Mr. Zachary Arenz is deserving of recognition. He is the very definition of a LifeChanger,” said Smith.

At Flower City School No. 54, Arenz is known not only as a music teacher but also as a mentor and advocate for his students. Colleagues say his classroom is a place where students feel safe to express themselves, take creative risks, and build confidence. Through music education, he helps students develop discipline, teamwork, and self-expression, skills that extend well beyond the stage or rehearsal room.

His work has also had a broader impact on the school community. Arenz has taken on leadership roles, supported school-wide initiatives, and helped foster a positive and inclusive environment for both students and staff. These efforts contributed to his selection as New York State Teacher of the Year in 2024, an honor that brought statewide attention to his approach to education.

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As a LifeChanger of the Year nominee, Arenz now joins a national group of educators and school employees being considered for the award. Winners will be announced in early 2026. Award recipients are chosen based on how their work strengthens school culture, supports students’ academic and emotional needs, and creates a lasting, positive influence in their communities.

For Flower City School No. 54, the nomination is a point of pride and a reflection of the important role educators play in shaping young lives. For Arenz, it is another acknowledgment of a career built on dedication, empathy, and the belief that every student deserves to be seen, supported, and inspired.