Javier Omar is a PhD student in the Developmental and Psychological Sciences program at Stanford University. His current research examines the influence of early life and immigration-related stress on socio-emotional development. Additionally, he is interested in exploring how social-emotional learning (SEL) programs can better meet the needs of culturally and linguistically diverse students. Prior to his graduate studies, he served as a secondary science teacher within the San Antonio Independent School District. He taught 9th-grade biology within the Cyber P-Tech Program at Sam Houston High School. Javier was an active member of his school's community, serving on numerous committees (AVID site team, PBIS site team, Campus Leadership Committee) and as the 9th-grade class sponsor. During his first year in the classroom, Javier was recognized as one of the Rising Stars for the district (an award that acknowledges first-year teachers who demonstrate excellence in the classroom).