For some people, 30 years of teaching might seem like too many; they might even wonder why it is that one would want to teach for so long. People continue to ask if I get bored teaching the same subject, or if I have thought of looking for a job that could in some way better benefit my income or life in some way. These seem like simple questions, and the answer is in fact just as simple. While I clearly enjoy what I do, teaching is not just about the benefit of oneself. It is about an inner passion to help students become true leaders, problem solvers and role models in their communities. I believe that there isn’t any other profession where you have the opportunity to touch so many, and help make a positive difference in their lives and in the lives of those they continue to influence along their path. Along with the thousands of students, I’ve had the privilege of watching and helping grow, I was also able to see my own kids be a part of this school community. Providing them with the opportunity to acquire the best education possible is priceless! And seeing my students and my children flourish in life beyond ASFM is just a continual reminder of a choice well made and 30 years well spent. When I turn and think about my own life as a student, I immediately think of my years at ASFM and all the great relationships that were started, relationships that have been ongoing in my life. MS Teacher Ms. Bárbara Belden Even though life as a student is not nearly the same today as it was then, the memories that I carry from ASFM are unbeatable. Being able to play outdoors as much as we could was in itself something that I would not dream of changing. Twister, marbles, jax, monkey bars, Chinese sticks, and the elastic chords were a plus in the fields. We could not wait to run outside and play. Then came the after school programs - track and field, drama, basketball, softball, and yes, cheerleading; what a blast! I turn to the new generations, and I ask myself - are the new generations losing those same opportunities of a lifetime, or are they forging new paths and new opportunities, lucky to have all they do with the technologies they have? I guess it all boils down to having a balance in life, and as the world changes, hopefully not losing the importance of the human side of communication and learning. Although a lot has changed in the way we teach, the essence of ASFM will always be the same. Our caring hearts, open minds, and our global leaders will always prevail. If I could leave some type of print on students in my 30-year trajectory as a teacher, and a lifetime of experiences, it would be to value and cherish friendships and relationships, and the simplicity of life. I would hope that those little things will make people happy, for one day they will make a difference in their lives and the lives of others. This is why I’ve chosen to stay in this profession for so long. This is why I love what I do, and why my classroom, my students, and my time and reach at ASFM are truly a part of who I am.