Aloha! I am Michael Press. I am the Social Studies Department Head and proud teacher for Team Resilient 8-3. I received my undergraduate and post-baccalaureate at Michigan State University and truly, “Once a Spartan, always a Spartan.” I have taught English in Japan, being invited to different Japanese schools to give lessons on intercultural communication, and presenting a professional development opportunity on culturally responsive teaching for my district. I encourage students to tear down walls and build bridges, sharing, and celebrating their diverse cultural backgrounds. Thus, students learn not to fear their differences, but to draw from one another’s strengths and maximize each one’s potential.