A Fierce Advocate, an Energizing Spirit, and A Guiding Light of Hope.
I have personally had the privilege and joy of being mentored by Sage Nelson, as a local alumni of Battle Mountain High School (BMHS). I have witnessed and experienced firsthand the profound impact she has on people and the genuine connections she forges on a human level.
Among her many roles, Sage stands out as a beacon for the community's youth and serves as the Exceptional Student Services Teacher at BMHS. Her dedication and passion are unwavering, making her truly deserving of recognition as the difference maker of the month.
Born and raised here in the Vail Valley, Sage traversed her educational journey through the Eagle County school system before pursuing a higher education at UC Santa Barbara. Despite her time away, she felt the mountains calling her back, “After graduating from UC Santa Barbara I knew I was a mountain girl and wanted to come back home.”
Her journey began as a paraprofessional at her alma mater, Battle Mountain High School. It didn't take long for her innate talent and passion to shine through, and within two months, she was offered the opportunity to become a special education teacher. She embraced the opportunity wholeheartedly as she does with everything, embarking on a new endeavor to obtain a master's degree in special education. This decision marked the inception of her illustrious career, now spanning two decades.
At Battle Mountain, Sage not only excels within the confines of the classroom but also extends her influence far beyond. Over her career she has served as the mentor of various extracurricular activities, including TEDxVail Youth, Youth Equity Stewardship (YES), Hope Squad, Gay Straight Alliance, Student Wellness Coordinator, Student Council, AmeriCorps site coordinator, and Link Crew, she serves as a beacon of inspiration and mentorship for countless students. Through these clubs and programs, she nurtures their talents, cultivates their leadership skills, and instills within them a sense of purpose and belonging. Which I can personally attest to.
When I asked about the greatest need of today's youth, Sage emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence and connectedness. She believes empowering young individuals to stand up for their beliefs while fostering inclusivity and community engagement is paramount in shaping a brighter future.
Her advice to the youth echoes with wisdom—urging them to "enjoy the ride" and find solace in the present moment. In a world inundated with constant activity, Sage advocates for the cultivation of stillness—a skill she deems indispensable for navigating life's intricacies with grace and resilience.
Central to Sage's philosophy is the power of authentic relationships. She understands the profound impact that a single trusted adult can have on a child's life, underscoring the importance of genuine connection and unwavering support in nurturing their potential.
In every interaction, Sage authentically embodies the spirit of compassion, empathy, and passion—a true difference-maker whose influence reverberates far beyond the confines of the classroom. Sage Nelson stands as a testament to the transformative power of education, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of our youth and community. Though I am just one student she has positively impacted over her career, she always made me feel like I wasn’t just another one of her students and I am forever honored and grateful to have had her support and mentorship. Thank you, Mrs. Sage, for always being a light of hope in the darkness and for always believing in me as a student and human, your impact will live on.
-Ariana Gonzalez, Youth Liaison
Comments