While Eugene Crew was not formally educated he was a smart man. He was also a dedicated father who believed in working hard so that he could give his son every possible opportunity for success. One of those opportunities was a high-quality education and Eugene knew it would be his son’s first-class ticket to a promising future. He decided he would do whatever it took and sacrifice whatever he had to get his son, Rudy, into college.

When Rudy’s own middle school guidance counselor dared to crush Eugene’s dream for his son, he patiently listened as she said her piece. He even sat quietly as the counselor insisted Rudy was “not college material.” But once it was Eugene’s turn to speak, he politely but firmly announced that his son was going to college and the matter was not up for debate. Wisely, the counselor realized that Eugene Crew meant business, and before Rudy knew it, he was starting Arlington High…on the college track.

What do you and Eugene Crew have in common? You’re both parents and you want your child to succeed in school and in life. Eugene Crew knew a high-quality education was the key to success. He demanded it for Rudy and because of his perseverance his son is now one of the country’s most effective educational leaders.

Dr. Rudy Crew is president of Global Partnership Schools and was honored as the 2008 National Superintendent of the Year.

- Dr. Rudy Crew, President, Global Partnership Schools