With much to balance in their lives, it is important that our students be trained to use tools and strategies that help them be most effective and successful as learners. As Associate Director of Academic Services and a member of the Middle School Support Team, I collaborate to provide direct and indirect support to students, teachers, and parents/guardians throughout the school year. I also keep up to date with the most well researched techniques to improve student learning. Additionally, I advise seventh graders. Since joining Beaver in 2001, I have valued working in an environment that promotes critical thinking, creativity, collaboration, reflection, and empathy throughout the community. The chance to see a student have an “a-ha” moment or beam with pride at an accomplishment is what motivates me the most.