For students and parents alike, the transition to middle school is met with some apprehension. There are new schedules, new classes, new activities and a new building to navigate. However, with a support system of caring teachers, counselors and other adults, like D’Angelo Burgos found at Plaza Middle School, students begin to achieve academically and socially. As Burgos knows, success doesn’t come without hard work, and he is quick to credit his family and staff at Plaza who have helped him along the way. They see a young man who built his own successful path by setting goals, asking for help and getting involved in activities and athletics. As he approaches eighth-grade next fall, Burgos does so embracing his newfound leadership role and a desire to support others.