Julie Wright Changemaker Award

Michael Heath, an 8th-grade math teacher at Caliber Beta Academy, is a Julie Wright Changemaker Award winner whose life story fuels his transformative classroom. A former foster youth who overcame homelessness and found his father in a chance airport encounter, Heath’s teaching is built on the creed that every student is a fighter. He fosters a “Math Hustler Club” where vulnerability and high expectations coexist, leading to exceptional results that rank him among the county’s top-performing teachers. His methodology centers on powerful relationships and a relentless growth mindset, and he actively seeks coaching to continuously improve his craft. Heath’s impact deepened when he adopted a former student, solidifying his empathy and partnership with families. The award honors his mission to be the supportive adult he needed as a child, as he strives to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and capable of academic success.

Alton B. Nelson, Jr., CEO of Making Waves Academy, is a Julie Wright Changemaker Award winner for his belief that great schools must anchor their communities. For nearly 15 years in West Contra Costa, he has led Making Waves to become a top-tier school where over 90% of graduates meet UC/CSU eligibility requirements, more than double the state average. His commitment extends beyond a single campus as a co-founder of the Contra Costa County Charter Coalition (5C), which unites public charter schools to collectively advocate for families and amplify parent voice in policy decisions. For Nelson, true empowerment comes from parents speaking directly to decision-makers. His leadership is characterized by building bridges between schools and fostering collaboration so student success is a shared mission. This award recognizes his career-long dedication to creating accessible, high-quality education and strengthening the entire West Contra Costa public school community.