One of the most-watched TED Talks about education is from teacher Rita Pierson, whose grandparents and parents were educators, too. Speaking to a packed hall, Pierson said that she’s seen plenty of educational reforms in her 40 years as a teacher. But, she said, what’s rarely talked about in education is the value of making connections—of positive relationship-building.

Young people, Pierson said, need people in their lives who will encourage them when they’re making progress, applaud them when they succeed, and remember how tough it was to be a kid.

“Every child deserves a champion, an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be,” Pierson said, adding, with a wide smile, “We’re educators. We’re born to make a difference.”

We couldn’t agree with her more.

Teachers make a positive difference in young people’s lives every single day, and that’s especially true in secondary education. Need proof? Just think back on how important your positive relationships with teachers were when you were in middle and high school. Think back on that high school literature teacher who made Shakespeare’s works come alive or that seventh-grade pre-algebra teacher who wasn’t happy until you understood a concept fully.

We won’t lie. Teaching is not easy, especially at the secondary level. You’ll have good days, some not so good days and a few really tough days. But we’re here to give you the educational foundation you’ll need to succeed, creating learning environments that will help students thrive.

Once you complete the Secondary Education program, you’ll be licensed to teach grades 7 through 12 in your core content area (English, Mathematics, Science or Social Studies) in Hawaii and most other states. The best part: Much of your coursework can be completed online, giving you extra flexibility while you gear up for student teaching opportunities in your area.