Year I graduated LFDCS: 
2010

Born and raised:
I was born in the Dominican Republic, and came over to Lawrence at the age of 7.

Education Path after LFDCS: 
I attended Lawrence High School and Phoenix Academy, and graduated from Phoenix Academy. I would like to get my Bachelor's degree in Education, with a focus on Special Education.

As an alumnus of LFDCS, what’s it like to now be working at LFDCS? How has this experience shaped your career path?
One of my goals was always to go back to the schools that I attended and be a positive role model to the students going there. Being able to come back and serve the community of children that might be going through the same circumstances I was going through. Having this experience, I would say, hasn't changed my career path but it has solidified it. I've always seen myself as a mentor or a school counselor. 

What is your favorite memory from your time at LFDCS?
One of my favorite memories from LFDCS was seeing the community of teachers that really cared and supported us. Teachers that stayed consistent and were there throughout our entire middle school experience.

What achievement are you most proud of in your career so far?
My biggest achievement is seeing the positive changes I make in a student's life. I strive to be a safe place for them for growth. I was considered a bad kid so I would be treated differently. Just them knowing that I had the same feelings/bias as them and was able to grow from it is an amazing achievement for me.

What advice would you give to current LFDCS students to help them make the most of their time here?
Some advice I would give them is to not try to fit in. Always be your authentic self and there's always going to be people like you. When you try to fit in you can lose yourself in the process and it can be damaging. Don't be afraid to ask for help for your own growth as well.