As a teacher, you will never fully know the impact that you have, and you will be part of every success story that you sent in motion. That was the message Nick Moore, the deputy assistant secretary for the U.S. Department of Education, brought with his keynote address at the second General Session of Educators Rising national conference in Orlando.

Before coming to the Education Department, Moore served as the director of the Governor’s Office of Education and Workforce Transformation (GOEWT) under Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey. Moore focused on aligning Alabama’s education and workforce programs, implementing a state longitudinal database system, establishing a non-degree credential quality and transparency system, and curating a competency-based education and skills-based hiring system in the state.

Moore talked to the audience of future educators and teacher leaders about his early career in education, starting as a classroom teacher in rural Alabama. “Education is a great leveling force,” he said, “The greatest anti-poverty system.”

Teachers play an essential role in helping students reach their potential. As new educators, Moore said, you are prepared to walk into a classroom filled with students with different abilities and dreams. “You will bring your passion and your wisdom to help student reach their potential,” he said.

Moore reminded the audience that of the small victories that are the heartbeat of the profession: A class that finally clicks. A shy student who smiles. Future students deserve teachers who are courageous and honorable. Remind young people they are torchbearers You are choosing one of the most important and impactful professions. Let others question your choice to be a teacher, because you know the truth, you are living it. Your students know too.

“The future walks into your classroom every day. They will see a guide, a champion, and a difference maker,” Moore said. “Welcome to the most meaningful part of your lives.”