Greenville High School 2001 grad LaToya Easter is the principal at East View High School in Georgetown, Texas. In addition to running a high school of more than 2,000 students, she is an accomplished writer and athlete who is known for her optimistic mindset.

LaToya has published three books: "Can't Cry," "Are You My Papa" and "10." She is the co-founder and CEO of WORC: Willpower Optimism Resilience Courage LLC, an online fitness and apparel company.

Thinking back to growing up in Greenville, LaToya credits longtime eighth-grade English teacher Bonnie Johnson for inspiring her to pursue a career in education.

"She challenged me in ways I had never experienced before," LaToya says. "I have a way with words, and she saw that in me and allowed me to be free and explore writing in a new and creative way. She inspired me to be a leader, and she is why I chose the pathway to become an English teacher. After graduating from the University of Houston, I taught middle school English, coached basketball and track, and then went on to become a middle school principal. Now, I'm in my fourth year as a high school principal."

LaToya also earned a master's degree in administration and leadership and an educational specialist degree in education administration and leadership from Grand Canyon University.

"I think being an educator is the greatest opportunity we have in society to make an impact on the world. I love to watch people grow, not just students, but teachers, also. In education, all people can surround themselves with opportunities to grow, and that inspires me."

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