In 2001, our Pride—a brave and committed group of teachers, fifth graders and their families— helped transform 27 acres of soybeans and peanuts into a campus dedicated to ensuring that every student would be prepared to attend the college of his/her choice and positively impact the world. Today, those fifth graders have graduated from colleges across the country, and more than 30 of these alumni are back in our schools teaching and leading. Our growing region is now home to over 2,000 students and hundreds of staff members who continue to nurture those roots of change.