Growing up with five siblings, I learned the importance of sharing. We shared everything - food, clothes, shoes, money, cars, and information. The team captains (mom, dad, and oldest sister) have passed on, but the five of us who remain yet have each other. I've come to realize that because of my family community, I've never been alone. There are so many people trekking this life alone, without the feeling of connectivity. To this day, when my siblings choose to share information with me, I have no doubt it's from a sincere place of love and compassion. They want me to succeed! So, I'm "throwing my hat in the ring'. Instead of packing up my classroom and vanishing silently into retirement, I've decided to pay it forward. As you turn the pages, I hope a kindred spirit connection occurs, and you adopt me as an honorary sibling.Born and raised in Kansas City Kansas, John David McConnell received his Bachelor of Science degree at Saint Mary College in Leavenworth, Kansas. John has taught grades 2 through 8 over the past 27 years. 20 of those years have been with the Houston Independent School District. In 2016 John received his doctorate in sacred music from Christian Bible Institute & Seminary. John's war chest of badges includes Christian, father of two sons, educator, actor, singer, songwriter, Certified Christian Counselor, and author.