Hoboken High School AP African American studies teacher Christopher Munoz has been nominated for National Life Group’s 2025-26 LifeChanger of the Year award.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
National Life Group’s LifeChanger of the Year recognizes and rewards the very best K-12 educators and school district employees across the United States who are making a difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
Munoz was nominated by Jersey City educator Noel Depeppe for his commitment to education and his involvement within the community.
“I’ve never known an educator who literally works seven days a week and until 9 or 10 at night,” Depeppe said in a statement.
Munoz brings excellence to the district and to his AP African American studies class, which has the best global scores and is ranked highest in the country. He runs every activity for the class, from trips to educational experiences.
Outside the classroom, Munoz is very active within the community. He works crowd control at sporting events all weekend and also wakes up early on Saturdays to run pancake fundraisers and car washes.
On Sundays, Munoz walks for various causes and participates in blood drives. In addition, he’s the teacher union vice president and a member of the Board of Directors of the PAL (Police Activities League) in his home city.
“Mr. Munoz does so much for the community and is an educator whom all the kids love,” added Depeppe
Since 2011, LifeChanger of the Year has recognized and rewarded more than 8,600 K-12 teachers, administrators, and school employees in 2,300+ school districts.
The program has awarded over $850,000 in cash prizes to winners and their schools for making a significant difference in the lives of students by exemplifying excellence, positive influence, and leadership.
One Grand Prize winner will receive $20,000 to be shared with their school/district, while four Grand Prize finalists will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
Additionally, LifeChanger award winners will receive $3,000 to be shared with their school/district, while one Spirit Award winner is given to the nominee whose community demonstrates the most support for their nomination.
That winner will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school/district.
Finally, a Spotlight Award winner is given to a nominee in a specific discipline each year and will receive $5,000 to be shared with their school or district.
Click here to read Munoz’s nominee profile and additional nominations can be made here.
