David Stokes, a physical education teacher at Paul Robeson High School, was named the 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year. He received the honor on Wednesday during a surprise assembly attended by hundreds of students and staff.
As Stokes walked into the gym, it quickly became clear this was no ordinary assembly. Balloons, cheers and applause signaled that the celebration was for him.
"It means the world to me, especially during Teacher Appreciation Week," Stokes said.
Stokes was selected from more than 1,000 K-12 teachers, administrators and school employees nationwide for transforming school culture, supporting student well-being and building community pride.
The award comes with a $3,000 prize, a $1,500 individual award, and a $1,500 donation to the school.
Students and colleagues say the recognition is well deserved, describing Stokes as a leader and role model who makes young people feel seen, supported and inspired.
"He gravitates to the kids, and the kids gravitate to him," said Paul Robeson High School Principal Lawrence King. "It's important to recognize him in this fashion."
Despite this glowing accolade, the news that Paul Robeson will soon shut down under the School District of Philadelphia's facilities master plan is a letdown for Stokes. He says he's still holding out hope that something will change.
"There is so much good happening in our school right now, and unfortunately, as you may know, we got cut for next year. So hopefully, you know, this could make some kind of difference to let everyone know the importance of what is going on here," said Stokes.