I grew up in a single-parent home, facing many of the challenges that come with being an at-risk youth. Barely graduating high school and being the only one in my family to attend and graduate from college, my early experiences were filled with obstacles, uncertainty, and the struggle to find a path forward. However, it is precisely these experiences that have shaped who I am today and allowed me to see education through the eyes of many of the students I serve. I understand the hurdles they face because I have faced them myself, and this empathy has been a guiding force throughout my career.
After high school, I enlisted in the United States Army, where I learned the values of discipline, resilience, and service to others. My time in the military instilled in me a deep commitment to service and a belief in the power of perseverance. These lessons stayed with me as I transitioned to civilian life and pursued a career in education. This career has allowed me to dedicate my adult life to the service of others.
I began my journey in education as a teacher, driven by a desire to make a difference in the lives of young people who, like me, needed someone to believe in them. I worked tirelessly to create a classroom environment where all students felt valued and capable of success. My passion for education and my commitment to student success eventually led me to roles as a principal and, later, as a superintendent. In each of these roles, my focus has always been creating equitable opportunities for all students and fostering a culture of support, inclusion, and high expectations.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work alongside incredible educators, students, and families who have inspired me every day. My upbringing, combined with my experiences as a veteran, teacher, principal, and superintendent, has given me a unique perspective on the challenges faced by many of our students. It is this perspective that drives my commitment to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.
I consider myself among the luckiest people in the world, not because my journey has been easy, but because it has been filled with opportunities to serve others. From my time in the Army to my years in education, I have dedicated my life to making a positive impact on the lives of those around me. This commitment to service is at the core of who I am, and it is an honor to continue this work every day.