As an instructional coach and teacher, I worked closely with my the district and school principal on a shared vision to facilitate learning experiences for teachers and students. I planned purposeful lessons and activities to address the students' academic needs (1A-1). I was intentional in how I created learning experiences that validated my students backgrounds and used them as an asset (1A-2). I created nurturing, collaborative, creative classroom environments rich in books. At the heart were always the students. Creating purposeful learning environments and lessons with high expectations were crucial in addressing achievement and the needs of all students including students with special needs, and disadvantage socio-economically (1A-3).