Dare County Schools

Not long after joining Dare County Schools as Director of Exceptional Children, George Graham began reaching out to teachers and parents of exceptional children to share insights on issues particular to them in a series of articles, "See it Big, But Keep it Simple."  Graham maintains that when dealing with life challenges, "we should strive to maintain a positive attitude, with high expectations 'see it big.' Additionally, we must keep in mind that in order to achieve any worthy goal, we must take one step at a time to accomplish it 'keep it simple.

"If we put forth the time and effort necessary, while maintaining a positive attitude with high expectations, then we can be more successful. By practicing the principle of see it big but keep it simple we can more effectively deal with stressful situations and also achieve our goals and objectives."

Last year, Graham expanded his article series ‑ and his audience ‑ when he began producing a website "Becoming Your Best." Becoming Your Best is devoted to stories of hope and encouragement from and about people near and far, obscure and renowned, that touch the heart ‑ especially individuals with disabilities and their families.  "These positive stories are meant to provide support and the keys to 'becoming your best' for educators, parents, and individuals who have disabilities," notes Graham. "I believe that practically everyone loves hearing stories, especially stories of individuals who have been able to overcome obstacles in their lives."

Graham's venture has since taken off. Subscribers to his Becoming Your Best monthly newsletter are increasing, as is his content.  On the heels of attending the state's 60th Annual Conference on Exceptional Children as a vendor to bring exposure to his website and newsletter in early November, he produced a Becoming Your Best 2011‑2012 calendar where each month is highlighted with an encouraging quote and an  original photograph by Graham. For more information about the project, how to contribute, or how to subscribe, visit  http://www.becomingyourbest.com.

"When we hear these kinds of stories, they can provide hope for us all," asserts Graham. "Hope that things can improve and get better.  All of us can truly benefit from hearing stories of encouragement in these challenging times in which we live.

"We all can use a little hope and encouragement."