HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- For Sydney Burts, teaching math is about more than solving equations; it's about helping students believe in themselves.

The YES Prep Northside Middle School educator says one of the most rewarding parts of her job is building confidence in students who often walk into class believing math is too hard.

"I just love connecting with our students and letting them know they are able to do anything that they want," Burts said.