Supporting student achievement and helping them develop as respectful, responsible individuals are important goals for any educator. I believe that my career journey to realize my dream of becoming a teacher, along with the adventures of being a parent, are two experiences that help demonstrate my commitment to these important goals and have helped me become a successful teacher. My journey to becoming a teacher began later in life than most people. After having two children, I started thinking about the possibility of becoming a teacher. As I watched my children grow and thrive in and out of the classroom, I decided it was time to pursue my dream. I realized this, as did the teachers who helped my children achieve,