I love watching the Oscars. There is nothing like listening to an authentically moving acceptance speech…and last night had plenty of them.

My favorite speech during last night’s Oscars was by Lupita Nyong’o, who won the Best Supporting Actress Award for her role in 12 Years a Slave.  At the end of her speech, Lupita said, “As I look down at this golden statue, may it remind me and every little child that no matter where you’re from, your dreams are valid.”

As educators, we all wear many hats and because of that, it is very difficult to clearly and succinctly define what it is we do. I thought Lupita’s words captured the very essence of educators: we truly are the validators of dreams. Our kids come to us from so many different backgrounds and situations. Although they are all different, EVERY kid is a dreamer and it is our job to make sure we provide ALL kids with opportunities to see their dreams fulfilled.

Thank you to all the wonderful educators who work everyday to validate the future of our students.