TAMPA, Fla. — "Preparing students for life" is more than a motto for Hillsborough County Schools, it's a mission for Ayana Lucas.

It's all about being college and career ready, not just at Hillsborough High School.

This A+ Teacher reaches dozens of campuses in the district, setting students up for success.

Lucas is a coordinator in the district's department for accelerated programs and has been an educator for nearly 20 years.

Whether she's training teachers, or hosting this new virtual series for students and parents, you'll find her everywhere, at all hours, providing opportunities for post-secondary success.

Former students and fellow teachers are thankful for her guidance.

“I learn from them, they learn from me,” Lucas said.

Improving student's lives and creating strong connections, teachers tell us Lucas wants everyone to reach higher.

"Ayana really comes into the classroom and provides opportunities for our students. College board opportunity scholarships, there's opportunities in terms of pre-AP, AP courses, dual-enrollment, and she brings it with so much energy into the classroom," said Jazmine Clarke.

Lucas has this message for middle and high school students:

"My journey has not always been an easy one, although I'm where I am today. I've had a variety of different challenges in my childhood, and I know that kids have also experienced challenges, but that doesn’t have to be your end, that's your beginning,” she said.

“Where you're going and where you will go determines what your end is, so continue to thrive in the environment you're in and continue to learn and grow from all the nuggets, the seeds that your teachers and parents are sowing for positivity in your life," Lucas added.