Patrice Dias da Cruz, a Michigan native, embarked on her career as a paraprofessional in Michigan with a focus on Autism and special needs students. She obtained an Early Childhood A.S. Degree at Broward College and holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Peace Studies from Florida Atlantic University. Additionally, she has earned a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership: School Administration K-12 (M.Ed.) from Lynn University and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Law. As a Veteran of the United States Army, she served as a US Army Foreign Combat Soldier in Panama Operation Just Cause and during Desert Storm and Desert Shield. Patrice is profoundly dedicated to education and student welfare, holding a Security Guard License and having previously worked as a Port Security Officer, prioritizing student safety while passionately mentoring children and contributing to the community. In her leisure time, she is a professional actress with appearances in numerous movies and TV shows and is currently volunteering within the local community to foster a better society for current and future generations. Patrice has extensive teaching experience, having taught at all levels of education from birth to high school, serving as an Early Childhood Educator for over 13 years, a Middle School World History and Civics Teacher, and a High School World History and Civics Teacher. She has 17 years of educational experience at all levels.