“Low standards are a tactic that takes pressure off teachers' unions by accepting mediocrity and failure for kids.”

“Who among us has never looked up into the heavens on a starlit night, lost in wonder at the vastness of space and the beauty of the stars?”

“Teachers make a difference, and we would serve our students better by focusing on attracting and retaining the quality teachers by raising teacher pay.”

“We awoke one morning in September, and the world lurched on its axis.”

“I don't wake up each morning saying, 'Oh, wow, it's me. I think I'm the cat's meow. I'm the best.'”

“I've been so blessed to be part of a family that has dedicated its life to public service.”

“Everyone talks about how, in your 30s, all of these growing pains transition into wisdom and you feel more self-assured and confident, but I think I had a bit of a jump-start on that at 27.”

“Not everyone may not think the way you do.”

“I think you're wrong.""Think what you like.”

“To think, to think, even with a split second left - to think was the only hope.”

“You two are too cute, the counter girl said, setting two cups piled with whipped cream on the counter. She had a sort of lopsided, open smile that made me think she laughed a lot. Seriously. How lo...”

“Life reality tells us that to grow physically, you first need to grow inwardly”

“Remember, one step leads to the other and therefore never neglect the first step. It will give you the confidence you need to sail through with victory”