Alumni Snapshot: Cornelius Rauls, IV

Name: Cornelius Rauls, IV

NHA school attended: Burton Glen Charter Academy (Class of 2015)

College attended: Grand Canyon University

Employer and position: Instructional Paraprofessional at Burton Glen Charter Academy

Tell us about your journey since you graduated from NHA.
Since graduating from NHA, life has taught me anything is possible. I went on to do some healthcare work, factory work, and I also even moved to another state where NHA is available. I knew early I would be a teacher. NHA has given me the tools to prepare for life beyond NHA. Since I realized Burton Glen Charter Academy is home, I’ve been in the position of Paraprofessional and it’s the best decision ever.

Which Moral Focus™ virtue has best shaped your life and why?
Perseverance. For me, it is often the force that keeps people moving forward even when things feel overwhelming or uncertain. It shapes your growth by teaching patience, resilience, and determination. Academically, perseverance helps you push through challenges, like difficult coursework, demanding projects, or setbacks at work, reminding you that progress is often built through consistent effort rather than quick results. It also helps your personal life. It allows you to overcome obstacles, whether that means recovering from failures, staying committed to long-term goals, or maintaining motivation when things don’t go as planned. My favorite thing about perseverance is it builds you as a character, it strengthens self-discipline and confidence. Every time you persist through difficulties, you prove to yourself that you’re capable of more than you thought.

How did your NHA school help prepare you for your academic and life experiences?
I feel as every child should get the NHA experience, attending an NHA school is vital. Burton Glen Charter Academy prepared me for both academic success and life experiences by instilling in me the importance of high expectations. Academically, I was challenged to pursue excellence in all areas of study, which required discipline, determination, and a commitment to continuous growth. The rigorous learning environment not only strengthened my critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also taught me how to set goals and work diligently to achieve them. Burton Glen emphasized the development of strong character and personal responsibility. I learned that high expectations extend beyond the classroom, influencing how I carry myself, interact with others, and approach challenges. By holding me accountable to high standards of integrity, respect, and perseverance, my school equipped me with the tools to navigate both academic and real-world situations with confidence and resilience. Burton Glen Charter Academy did more than provide an education—it prepared me to strive for excellence in every area of life. The lessons I gained continue to guide me in meeting challenges with determination and in recognizing that success is achieved through consistent effort, high standards, and a commitment to personal growth.