Protecting children and investing in their education and wellbeing can often feel like a battle. The seat that the author now holds at the proverbial education table is crucial in not only developing a well-rounded and well-equipped student body, but it is also in seeing herself as a role model to future leaders--both women and future leaders of color. But this seat was not easily achieved, and often her voice was overpowered by those afraid of someone who did not look like a leader--in their eyes, at least. In this article, the author discusses her experience during the pandemic and beyond as a secondary assistant principal.