As an educator, Anita has made a difference in the lives of hundreds, maybe thousands, of children. Her area of expertise is with "at risk" children. Those children are not expected to have the opportunity to go to college. Circumstances that often cause roadblocks can include poverty, single parent homes, history of time involved in the court system, one or more grades behind, and stereotype inferences. She has taken these challenges as opportunities to create programs to help these children succeed. Her doctoral dissertation was on the topic of cultural proficiency. Anita believes that by learning the skills to understand and embrace the cultures of others then she can begin to build a foundation for these youth to succeed in the world.As the Director of Education for the Indiana Department of Child Services as well as in her current position as the Assistant Superintendent for an organization that serves the entire state, she has had the opportunity to work between educators and others in human services to ensure that our youth are receiving every opportunity possible in school while also meeting all of their needs beyond academics. Educating a child simply is not what it was 20 years ago. Dr. Silverman’s strength is building schools for youth that are not always successful in the traditional learning environment. All children can learn when provided that right environment filled with educators who believe in their students and are supported by their administration in helping all students succeed.Specialties: Experience in creating award winning program (state alternative program of the year), contract negotiations, building and district level budgeting, grant writing, evaluation of teachers and administrators, hiring practices, curriculum, and technology, and community partnerships and collaboration. This has led to growth of a various school environments as well as expansion of services offered in a state agency.