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continued from page 3 of opportunity—for teachers are exactly that,” he added.

Carvalho went on to explain that he came from humble beginnings, and that his parents never had the opportunity to attend school past the third grade. Carvalho’s fourth grade teacher took him under her wing, affirming him and giving him the confidence he needed to succeed in school. He implored the teachers present to truly invest in their students and form real, emotional connections with them.

“You will not touch the child’s mind without first touching their heart,” he said.

“You will create meaningful, magical moments with kids, and take them to places they never dreamed they could reach.

“That was my journey.”

Following Carvalho’s speech, credential program graduates had their names called as they walked the stage. For Zulema Pettway, earning her special education credential marked a great personal achievement.

“It was a hard road to get here, but worth it,” she said. “I want to be a light for my students and give them the opportunities they deserve.”