When kids think they can, they will!

First and second graders are excited, passionate, and eager to learn. It seems as if there is no end to their enthusiasm for learning and achievement. Yet somewhere between 5th and 8th grade, students begin to lose hope and faith in themselves. Students, who were once excited and hopeful for the future, become apathetic towards school and doubtful of their abilities to succeed socially, emotionally, and academically.

Adolescence is one of the most difficult transitions in a student's life. They are plagued by uncertainty, hormonal and bodily changes, a greater awareness of differences between themselves and others, and an increased need for independence. Teachers and parents can help students not just survive this trying time of life, but actually thrive as they get ready for high school!

Great teachers are leaders and coaches. An important part of our jobs as teachers is to empower students to manage themselves from the inside out, and to assist them in building personal strength and resilience, foster a belief in their potential, and develop the mindset for success.

I have coached hundreds of business leaders, friends and family members, educators, and adults from all walks of life, both informally and professionally. But it wasn't until I began raising my own adolescents and teens and by mentoring junior high and high school students did I begin to realize that the strategies professional coaches use to help adults realize their dreams, make successful career and life transitions, and develop leadership skills, were the same strategies teachers could use to help motivate students to realize their potential!

I became passionate about sharing with students what I have learned over the years in working with adults; through personal growth and development, anyone can acquire the mindset for success!

I began working in middle school classrooms, adapting proven strategies for success to work with adolescents. The results were astounding! Students who formerly had no vision of a positive future were setting goals and making plans to achieve their dreams.

It was then that I conceived of the idea of a teacher's guide, relying heavily on my teacher colleagues for input.