Due to a car accident, Dallas County Board of Education Secretary Dare Justice is legally blind.

Despite Justice’s disability, she is one of the most positive people you likely will ever encounter.

If you’ve ever called the Dallas County Board of Education before, you’ve likely heard her calming voice and experienced her pleasant demeanor through the phone.

After her accident in 2003, Justice reflected on her grandfather to find the inspiration and drive to persevere, despite her new disability .

“He was born disabled,” said Justice. “It was during a time when then didn’t have rehab. He taught himself everything that a normal person needed in life. When I became blind, that was my greatest inspiration. He had already passed, but remembering all that he accomplished keeps me going.”

Justice is beloved by everyone at the Dallas County Board of Education office for her dedication and hard work as well as her radiant attitude.

Dallas County Schools Chief Financial Officer Brenda Turner, who will soon retire, expressed her adoration for Justice.

“We love her,” said Turner, “She’s our girl.”

Justice’s calming presence his particularly beloved by Superintendent Hattie Shelton.

“I’m told I have a very calming demeanor,” said Justice. “When there’s an angry parent that comes in to see the superintendent, I calm them down before they get to the superintendent. The superintendent really appreciates that.”

Being a peaceful presence in situations like that is what Justice loves about her job.

“That’s what I enjoy the most,” said Justice. “Is just being able to resolve issues.”

Justice doesn’t spend the entirety of her days at the office calming down angry parents , she has many other duties to fulfill as secretary. She greets students, parents and anyone else that comes in to see Miss Shelton. In addition to greeting those that wander into the office, she also answers incoming calls and delivers mail to others that work in the building.

As secretary at the Board Office, Justice has the opportunity to meet lots of new people, particularly in the summer, as many new hires to the Dallas County School System come through the building.

Justice welcomes the opportunity to meet so many new people and her smiling face is often the first thing people say when they step into the office.

“I love being able to greet them,” said Justice. “Not everyone that comes through says that they’re having a great day. But with a smile, you can turn their day around.”

When asked where her aura of positivity and warmth comes from, Justice has no trouble answering.

“God,” she said. “100 percent. I say a prayer every morning just to give me a positive attitude. I can’t do it without God. My faith.”