To uplift and encourage eighth-grade learning center students to always do their best, teacher Alexa Bello recently invited two local business owners to speak to them.

The speakers — Katherine Riley, owner of Katherine Jon Salon, and Carl Harris, a financial advisor — took turns speaking about their personal achievements and how they overcame hardships. The pair also pointed out the importance of always being kind to others and provided tips for success.

“I think the messages of our speakers really resonated with the students,” said Ms. Bello.