The teacher has been certified to teach in Washington State since 1990 (including endorsements in special education from preschool through high school) and has taught in multiple settings. In 1984 at age 21, he was named Big Brother of the Year in King County, the most populous county in Washington, for his volunteer work with a 3rd-grade boy. He has taught leadership classes for children throughout his career and been a mentor to students who wanted to hone their leadership abilities. He has a knack for engaging children who, having worked with Andy, feel consistently respected and buoyed by these interactions.