I have been teaching Science now for 11 years.  This will be my third year in FBISD and my third year at Baines MS.  I worked in the corporate world and  owned my own business for many years.  I decided to come back and work with young adults after working as a program coordinator for different community service organizations when I was younger.  There was one teacher that made a tremendous impact on me in 9th grade and completely altered the trajectory of my academic career.  I would not have been able to be where I am now had it not been for her faith in me and her compassion to see me succeed.  I was not always the best student, but I worked hard and have a drive that never quits - regardless of the circumstances.  In my classroom, I try to remember the same compassion she had for my success and I have high expectations for my students - regardless of the circumstances.  Success is not easy - but it can be achieved by anyone willing to risk failure and continue to work hard towards their dreams.  That's why I call my class Rivera's Rising Stars - it's my job to help elevate them from where they are to where they want to go.