RENO — On Thursday, Deanna LeBlanc, a fourth-grade teacher at East Valley Elementary School in Fernley, will change the life of DeAnn Kelsey, a substitute teacher in Lyon County. University of Phoenix is recognizing the accomplishments of LeBlanc, who is the 2012 Nevada Teacher of the Year, by providing her with the opportunity to “Teach Forward,” a full-tuition scholarship to University of Phoenix.

LeBlanc is one of only 54 educators across the country recognized by the Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) as a 2012 state teacher of the year. Each year since 1952, students, teachers and administrators have nominated their favorite educators for this award, which is considered the oldest and most prestigious national program recognizing excellence in teaching.

Kelsey, the scholarship recipient chosen by LeBlanc, intends to pursue a master’s degree in education. She has her undergraduate degree in Art Education from California State University, Long Beach, but due to family circumstances following her graduation, she was never able to get the proper teaching credentials.

“I feel my master’s degree from University of Phoenix will help me achieve my professional goals, enabling me to become a teacher and fulfill my life’s dream that eluded me thus far,” LeBlanc said.