Tomorrow, December 8th, 2024, marks four years since Thoughts Cost began. As I sit down to reflect on the journey, I feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude. It started with one student.
In 2020, when the pandemic disrupted everything, I was working as a special education teacher. Schools were shutting down, and the world was adjusting to a new normal. As plans for in-person learning were being developed, I knew I was not ready to rush back into the building. My students, who had unique learning needs, were reassigned when I voiced my concerns. I wanted to explore creative ways to teach online and provide meaningful support during a time of immense uncertainty, but I found myself outside the system I was trying to help.
I left the district with no plan, no income, and a lot of questions. But I had one student who still needed me, and that was enough to spark what would become Thoughts Cost. That one student symbolized so many others. Students who deserved the chance to learn in ways that met their unique needs, families searching for guidance, and educators striving to adapt to new challenges.
In those early days, it was just me, trying to make a difference. I had no idea how to run a business. I did not even think of it as a business. I simply wanted to help. I worked directly with students, parents, and teachers, creating solutions one conversation at a time. The work was challenging, and there were moments when I did not know how I would make it all work financially. But every small victory and every breakthrough kept me going.
Slowly but surely, Thoughts Cost began to grow. It was not easy, but I had people in my corner who believed in what I was trying to do. Their advice, encouragement, and belief in the mission helped me stay on track. To everyone who supported me during those early days, thank you. Your kindness and generosity made this possible.
Now, four years later, I am amazed at how far we have come. Thoughts Cost has evolved from helping one student to building programs that serve students, families, educators, and even CEOs. We are developing EdTech products that transform the way people learn and teach. We have state-level contracts that allow us to expand our impact and bring equity and innovation to communities across Washington.
In 2023, we were honored to receive the WASA Award from the Washington Association of School Administrators. This recognition was a powerful reminder of how far we have come. It symbolized the resilience, creativity, and dedication that have defined this journey.
When I think about where we started with no money, no business experience, just a determination to help, it feels surreal to see what Thoughts Cost has become. It is more than a business. It is a movement rooted in the belief that education should be empowering, inclusive, and equitable.
We now build programs like ARISE, PATH, LEAP, and AURA that prepare students for the workforce, support individuals with disabilities, empower underserved youth, and strengthen family and community engagement. We create tools and training to help teachers meet the diverse needs of their students. We support families in advocating for their children and bridging gaps in understanding.
The impact of our work humbles and inspires me. It is a testament to what can happen when passion meets purpose and when a community comes together to create change.
To the students, families, educators, and supporters who have been part of this journey, thank you. Your belief in the vision of Thoughts Cost has allowed us to grow and thrive.
As we celebrate this milestone, I am filled with hope for the future. The past four years have shown me that anything is possible with dedication, collaboration, and a commitment to serving others. I cannot wait to see where the next four years take us. This is only the beginning.
Thoughts Processed 