Julieta Anitok is a science teacher at Simon Sanchez High School, instructing honors biology and physical science. For Anitok, teaching was actually her second career.

Nine months later, she was able to step into the classroom and it's been her passion ever since...a mission to make impacts on students lives. For Anitok, the most rewarding thing about her profession is when she sees that a-ha moment.

"It's moments like that really excite me and my students. Really just seeing their success...because their success is my success. It all goes hand and hand," she said.

As for navigating through the challenges all teachers face? When it comes to the role of a teacher, she uses an open mind, open heart approach, saying, "To be their guide, to be their mentor, and to facilitate. To create a safe environment."

For Anitok, she is grateful for those who allow her to be mission ready when it comes to her kids. She said, "Yo the teachers out there, thank you. And most importantly to God."