When asked why I switched careers from journalism to education, my answer is simple. I saw the need. After years of meeting many high school graduates who could not perform simple math, I was motivated to go back to school myself and get my post baccalaureate in primary education. I was also motivated by my own experience as a kid who was bullied in school. I had a vision of being an educator who could provide a safe and educationally rich environment for students. I have witnessed first hand how children who are given support and encouragement can beat even the toughest odds. I believe that when students truly believe in themselves and are provided the opportunity of a solid education, they can achieve more than they ever dreamed possible.