This research project explored the impact of seven teachers' life experiences on their core beliefs about educationally just teaching philosophy and practices. Results of a qualitative, phenomenological case study yielded six themes, each revealing particular connections between teachers' life experiences and their beliefs about educational justice. The research was conducted at high-school sites within programs designed to foster educational opportunities for students not academically succeeding within their respective institutions. Results were based on extensive interviews and classroom observations. The work is grounded in educational justice scholarship and has particular significance for teachers who work with disenfranchised student populations.