I have enjoyed my 26 years as a public school educator and have worked hand-in-hand with fellow educators to accomplish much at the middle and high school levels. While my career has been shaped by the unique needs of the buildings that I have led (and the communities within which they reside), the common theme throughout these experiences has been a clear understanding and focus on the academic, social and emotional growth and development of students. In each position I developed and implemented a variety of programs and expectations that foster not only quality teaching and academic achievement but effective processes/procedures to enhance student schedules, attendance, discipline, school safety & security. These experiences provide me with an invaluable perspective regarding the needs of students which, to this day, continues to fuel my desire/passion to tackle the many challenges facing public education in the 21st century and make a difference in the lives of the students entrusted to our care.