Dr. Catherine Flores is a dedicated high school special education teacher and a proud first-generation college graduate. She began her career in the South Bronx, where she taught for two years, gaining invaluable experience in an underserved community. Seeking opportunities for professional growth, she transitioned to a school in Westchester County, where she continues to support students with diverse learning needs. Committed to lifelong learning, she earned two master’s degrees and a doctorate from Johns Hopkins University, where her dissertation focused on “The Emotional Well-Being of Affluent, High-Achieving Adolescents.” Her work reflects a deep passion for equity in education and student mental health across all socioeconomic backgrounds.