DO YOU HAVE AN IDEA?
If you see something out there to inspire others, send the link to me at [email protected]
Advanced Teen Leadership HERO essays, published at now.wktv.org (Wyoming Kentwood Now - Citizen Journalist Project)
March Gladness Thanks to awesome leader and former student Mohammed Said for sending this for my teen leadership classes. Great example of how to raise our kids to know they are special and can do it.
Thanks Kelly Keimig for this link. You are a wonderful colleague, friend, and Mom. Thanks to my Mom, too!
"I get it, Mom"
Thank you to Kaylynn Alder for this story showing some amazing generosity.
Part 1: Homeless man cashes in a lottery ticket
Part 2: It doesn't stop there!
Thanks for the numerous thought-provoking clips, Arianna Crane!
Can we auto-correct humanity?
Need some motivation? (This is it)
Dream - Motivational Video
What I learned in life is... (Multiple quotes)
Identity - Short Film Award
Simple Acts of Kindness, submitted by Mackenzie Schraeger, class of 2018
Simple Acts of Kindness
Brandy Ghoston, thanks for the giving me this link and for giving your all to your kids every day!
Giving is the best communication
What does "You run like a girl" mean to you? Thanks for passing this on, Kelly Botwinski.
Run Like a Girl
Paul Smith is a talented artist who inspires. "If you think you can or you think you can't, you're right."
What CAN you do?
EKFC Teacher Jasmine Ramahi describes this clip: "Rashard has won a superbowl, been a first round draft pick, and went to college on a full ride for football. However, at the age of 26 he is retiring to write." Thank you for bringing your positive spirit to our building, Jasmine!
Rashard Mendenhall's New Passion
Our high school shines!
Kentwood Lipdub 2014
"The path for a new beginning starts within YOU." Inspiring video link submitted by teacher Malik Baker.
Why I think this world should end
More Rice = More Time, another good link from Mr. Baker.
"More Rice?"
NBA star Kevin Durant gives credit where it's due. Thanks for the link, Patti Ley!
Kevin Durant's moving MVP speech
Look up from your display, live life the real way...
Look up
Heather runs a race, she wants first place. She falls on her face, she sets a new pace!
Heather Dorniden - Big 10 Indoor Track Finals
Lizzie asks "How do YOU define yourself?" Thanks to my colleague, Katie Koole-McCurdy.
Lizzie Velasquez
Father-son duo showing the WIT way (Whatever It Takes)
Team Hoyt
These middle school football players take matters into their own hands for a truly successful play.
Olivet Middle School's Secret Football Play
A positive self-concept is important! You're more beautiful than you think. Thank you for the inspirational link, Linnea Piechocki!
Self Awareness
Inspiring 7 min TED talk for educators! Thanks to EKHS Dominic Lowe for posting this on your facebook. :)
Every Kid Needs a Champion
Great lesson on how to focus on what is truly important. Thank you for the link, Elijah Lewis!
The Pickle Jar
Kid President's Pep Talk to Teachers and Students
Kid President
Teacher Malik Baker brought this link to my attention. This fits in so well with our Teen Leadership class, Mr. Baker! Thanks!
Golfer Reyhan Griffin - Winner of Wells Fargo Contest
April 2013 Interviews with several students/staff. Topic: Sustaining a Positive Culture at Kentwood
We are EK!
Keep your focus on what's truly important. What are your values and principles? Do you walk the talk? This coach effectively challenges his players.
Moment of Truth in Coaching
Moving performance by a Shadow Dance Group suggested by student Jake Rosado. Thanks, Jake!
Shadow Dance
Click this link for a 4 minute description of how writing a good thank you note helps both the giver and receiver. Thank you for the thoughtful suggestion,Martha Dolan. Perhaps I should put that in writing. :)
The Act of Giving Thanks
By dropping a coin into a hat, a girl ends up getting more than she thought she would. A tribute to the music teachers everywhere! :) (Thanks for the link, Mom!)
Best Coin Ever Spent
Whatever you do in this life, put your personal signature on it.
Southwest preflight instructions done right
My friend Liz Ernst sent me this link. A good illustration of how to treat people. These teams accept, embrace, and celebrate a student-athlete.
Sportsmanship
Submitted by Mercedes Elner who credits her English teacher, Beth Thompson. Learning to think, not memorize...
Why I Hate School but Love Education
Video submitted by Eileen Tran (class of 2016) and Uyen Tran (class of 2017) with a powerful message communicated visually with art. The "Sticks and Stones, words won't hurt me" saying is not true, but we also need to choose what we believe.
To This Day
Thanks to one of my favorite people to work with, Ms. Brandy Ghoston. This clip, narrated by Alan Watts, asks about what you would do if money wasn't the goal.
What do you want to do with your life?
Funny commercial featuring a mouse and a mousetrap reminding us of the strength within. Thank you for the suggestion, Selma Hajrulahovic!
Nolan's Cheese
4 min clip showing a 9-year-old big brother compete with/for his younger one. He speaks eloquently about how people should treat each other. Inspiring!
2012 Sportskid of the Year
This is what growing confidence in people looks like. This comes from one of my friends, Teen Leadership teacher Aaron Blain.
Jack's Heat
See some cool things security cameras have captured. It's all about perspective... Thanks to student Morgan Bowers for the link!
Coca Cola Cameras Commercial
Good story of Mr. MacDonald explaining how to reach a tough student by doing something unexpected. This reminds me of my friend Monda Simmons who has an incredible knack for making people feel valued. Thanks to Derek Braman, 5th grade teacher at Explorer Elementary in Kentwood!
Do the Unexpected
"Kindness keeps the world afloat." Thanks to Andrew Toronyi for submitting this video!
Kindness Boomerang
Student Nicole Tuttle interviewed Senior Olympian "Jimmy O" for her project. This was his 2 minute message for our 2nd hour. Thanks for your inspiration and IMPACT, Nicole and Jimmy!
Jimmy O
Simple Truths is a website featuring inspirational short video clips as well as other items for sale. Many of the video clips are free to view.
Simple Truths
Resources for Personal and Professional Success
Walk the Talk
A good 4-minute video clip about how attitude makes a big difference
The Power of Attitude
Bo Schembechler talks to his football team about TEAM and what it means. U of M fan or not, this is an inspirational message about having a team mentality. Thanks to one of the biggest wolverine fans out there, student Matthew McClain, for sharing this with our 2nd hour team!
The Team
Powerful 15 minute video challenging students to think about the power of their words/actions
Challenge Day
Inspirational clip of a young student named Dalton Sherman giving a speech to thousands of teachers.
Keynote address in Dallas
A good strategy for prioritizing that to do list
Eat That Frog
Cool musical "Miracles" mix suggested by student Jada Paul
Miracles
Inspirational moment quoting Marianne Williamson's "deepest fear" poem. Thank you, Donovan Perales for showing our 5th hour this Coach Carter scene.
Our Deepest Fear
Nick Vujicic's inspiring perspective on overcoming obstacles.
No Arms, No Legs, No Worries
Randy Pausch gives a 10 min version of his famous Last Lecture on Oprah. "I can't change the cards I've been dealt, just the way I play my hand."
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture
Having a tough time figuring out the answer to the question, "What should I do with my life?" Watching this 7 minute video might help (thanks to the inspiring teacher and coach Jock Ambrose for sharing this link)
The Power of Passion
Motivational message about self-motivation and success. Thanks to Gary Harmon for sharing this with our staff!
Eric Thomas - The Truth
This clip has Eric Thomas' speech mixed in the background, but the video shows training for hockey. Thanks, Samantha Morris!
Hockey Inspiration
When you're facing death, life comes into clear focus. Jimmy shares 3 important things to do every day. Zach Brooks, thanks for sharing your example of an effective speaker.
1993 Jimmy V ESPY speech
Words ----> <---- Actions = Integrity
Walk the Talk
8 minutes challenging students and schools to think about words, actions, and inactions that can hurt others.
Bully Clip
A musician and his dad not holding back. "Do all you can with the gifts you have." Thank you Jill Zuker, Teen Leadership teacher in West Ottawa.
Patrick Henry Hughes
Good source by topic for the values we choose to live by. Thank you Jill Zuker, Teen Leadership teacher in West Ottawa.
Values.com
17 minute lecture putting things into a positive perspective. Thanks, Grand Haven teacher Aaron Blain, for the link and for being awesome!
The 3 A's of Awesome
Arthur visually demonstrates his persistence. Very inspiring!
Arthur Boorman - Gulf War Vet
2010 Valedictorian Speech at Booker T. Washington High School. Jaylen Young, thank you for the motivational link!
Deonte Bridges' Valedictorian Speech
20 min clip showing multiple younger kids describing their experience with battling cancer and demonstrating true courage.
The Face of Courage
Raffi shares his covenant for teaching young children. Thank you Micki Smokovich for sharing the link with me.
A Covenant for Honouring Children
Need your parking ticket validated? Here is a creative story of how validating can have a ripple effect. Thanks to my beautiful wife, Judy, for sharing this link.
Validation
A coach inspiring his team before a big game... thanks to Andrew Toronyi for sharing this link!
I am a champion
Poet named "Amjay" gives her semi-finals poetry slam performance from 2009. Thank you Lien Tran for sharing this with our 4th hour!
Poetry Slam
This link gives good info on why students should pursue college and directs students on steps to take.
Why College? How?_
If you see something out there to inspire others, send the link to me at [email protected]
Advanced Teen Leadership HERO essays, published at now.wktv.org (Wyoming Kentwood Now - Citizen Journalist Project)
March Gladness Thanks to awesome leader and former student Mohammed Said for sending this for my teen leadership classes. Great example of how to raise our kids to know they are special and can do it.
Thanks Kelly Keimig for this link. You are a wonderful colleague, friend, and Mom. Thanks to my Mom, too!
"I get it, Mom"
Thank you to Kaylynn Alder for this story showing some amazing generosity.
Part 1: Homeless man cashes in a lottery ticket
Part 2: It doesn't stop there!
Thanks for the numerous thought-provoking clips, Arianna Crane!
Can we auto-correct humanity?
Need some motivation? (This is it)
Dream - Motivational Video
What I learned in life is... (Multiple quotes)
Identity - Short Film Award
Simple Acts of Kindness, submitted by Mackenzie Schraeger, class of 2018
Simple Acts of Kindness
Brandy Ghoston, thanks for the giving me this link and for giving your all to your kids every day!
Giving is the best communication
What does "You run like a girl" mean to you? Thanks for passing this on, Kelly Botwinski.
Run Like a Girl
Paul Smith is a talented artist who inspires. "If you think you can or you think you can't, you're right."
What CAN you do?
EKFC Teacher Jasmine Ramahi describes this clip: "Rashard has won a superbowl, been a first round draft pick, and went to college on a full ride for football. However, at the age of 26 he is retiring to write." Thank you for bringing your positive spirit to our building, Jasmine!
Rashard Mendenhall's New Passion
Our high school shines!
Kentwood Lipdub 2014
"The path for a new beginning starts within YOU." Inspiring video link submitted by teacher Malik Baker.
Why I think this world should end
More Rice = More Time, another good link from Mr. Baker.
"More Rice?"
NBA star Kevin Durant gives credit where it's due. Thanks for the link, Patti Ley!
Kevin Durant's moving MVP speech
Look up from your display, live life the real way...
Look up
Heather runs a race, she wants first place. She falls on her face, she sets a new pace!
Heather Dorniden - Big 10 Indoor Track Finals
Lizzie asks "How do YOU define yourself?" Thanks to my colleague, Katie Koole-McCurdy.
Lizzie Velasquez
Father-son duo showing the WIT way (Whatever It Takes)
Team Hoyt
These middle school football players take matters into their own hands for a truly successful play.
Olivet Middle School's Secret Football Play
A positive self-concept is important! You're more beautiful than you think. Thank you for the inspirational link, Linnea Piechocki!
Self Awareness
Inspiring 7 min TED talk for educators! Thanks to EKHS Dominic Lowe for posting this on your facebook. :)
Every Kid Needs a Champion
Great lesson on how to focus on what is truly important. Thank you for the link, Elijah Lewis!
The Pickle Jar
Kid President's Pep Talk to Teachers and Students
Kid President
Teacher Malik Baker brought this link to my attention. This fits in so well with our Teen Leadership class, Mr. Baker! Thanks!
Golfer Reyhan Griffin - Winner of Wells Fargo Contest
April 2013 Interviews with several students/staff. Topic: Sustaining a Positive Culture at Kentwood
We are EK!
Keep your focus on what's truly important. What are your values and principles? Do you walk the talk? This coach effectively challenges his players.
Moment of Truth in Coaching
Moving performance by a Shadow Dance Group suggested by student Jake Rosado. Thanks, Jake!
Shadow Dance
Click this link for a 4 minute description of how writing a good thank you note helps both the giver and receiver. Thank you for the thoughtful suggestion,Martha Dolan. Perhaps I should put that in writing. :)
The Act of Giving Thanks
By dropping a coin into a hat, a girl ends up getting more than she thought she would. A tribute to the music teachers everywhere! :) (Thanks for the link, Mom!)
Best Coin Ever Spent
Whatever you do in this life, put your personal signature on it.
Southwest preflight instructions done right
My friend Liz Ernst sent me this link. A good illustration of how to treat people. These teams accept, embrace, and celebrate a student-athlete.
Sportsmanship
Submitted by Mercedes Elner who credits her English teacher, Beth Thompson. Learning to think, not memorize...
Why I Hate School but Love Education
Video submitted by Eileen Tran (class of 2016) and Uyen Tran (class of 2017) with a powerful message communicated visually with art. The "Sticks and Stones, words won't hurt me" saying is not true, but we also need to choose what we believe.
To This Day
Thanks to one of my favorite people to work with, Ms. Brandy Ghoston. This clip, narrated by Alan Watts, asks about what you would do if money wasn't the goal.
What do you want to do with your life?
Funny commercial featuring a mouse and a mousetrap reminding us of the strength within. Thank you for the suggestion, Selma Hajrulahovic!
Nolan's Cheese
4 min clip showing a 9-year-old big brother compete with/for his younger one. He speaks eloquently about how people should treat each other. Inspiring!
2012 Sportskid of the Year
This is what growing confidence in people looks like. This comes from one of my friends, Teen Leadership teacher Aaron Blain.
Jack's Heat
See some cool things security cameras have captured. It's all about perspective... Thanks to student Morgan Bowers for the link!
Coca Cola Cameras Commercial
Good story of Mr. MacDonald explaining how to reach a tough student by doing something unexpected. This reminds me of my friend Monda Simmons who has an incredible knack for making people feel valued. Thanks to Derek Braman, 5th grade teacher at Explorer Elementary in Kentwood!
Do the Unexpected
"Kindness keeps the world afloat." Thanks to Andrew Toronyi for submitting this video!
Kindness Boomerang
Student Nicole Tuttle interviewed Senior Olympian "Jimmy O" for her project. This was his 2 minute message for our 2nd hour. Thanks for your inspiration and IMPACT, Nicole and Jimmy!
Jimmy O
Simple Truths is a website featuring inspirational short video clips as well as other items for sale. Many of the video clips are free to view.
Simple Truths
Resources for Personal and Professional Success
Walk the Talk
A good 4-minute video clip about how attitude makes a big difference
The Power of Attitude
Bo Schembechler talks to his football team about TEAM and what it means. U of M fan or not, this is an inspirational message about having a team mentality. Thanks to one of the biggest wolverine fans out there, student Matthew McClain, for sharing this with our 2nd hour team!
The Team
Powerful 15 minute video challenging students to think about the power of their words/actions
Challenge Day
Inspirational clip of a young student named Dalton Sherman giving a speech to thousands of teachers.
Keynote address in Dallas
A good strategy for prioritizing that to do list
Eat That Frog
Cool musical "Miracles" mix suggested by student Jada Paul
Miracles
Inspirational moment quoting Marianne Williamson's "deepest fear" poem. Thank you, Donovan Perales for showing our 5th hour this Coach Carter scene.
Our Deepest Fear
Nick Vujicic's inspiring perspective on overcoming obstacles.
No Arms, No Legs, No Worries
Randy Pausch gives a 10 min version of his famous Last Lecture on Oprah. "I can't change the cards I've been dealt, just the way I play my hand."
Randy Pausch's Last Lecture
Having a tough time figuring out the answer to the question, "What should I do with my life?" Watching this 7 minute video might help (thanks to the inspiring teacher and coach Jock Ambrose for sharing this link)
The Power of Passion
Motivational message about self-motivation and success. Thanks to Gary Harmon for sharing this with our staff!
Eric Thomas - The Truth
This clip has Eric Thomas' speech mixed in the background, but the video shows training for hockey. Thanks, Samantha Morris!
Hockey Inspiration
When you're facing death, life comes into clear focus. Jimmy shares 3 important things to do every day. Zach Brooks, thanks for sharing your example of an effective speaker.
1993 Jimmy V ESPY speech
Words ----> <---- Actions = Integrity
Walk the Talk
8 minutes challenging students and schools to think about words, actions, and inactions that can hurt others.
Bully Clip
A musician and his dad not holding back. "Do all you can with the gifts you have." Thank you Jill Zuker, Teen Leadership teacher in West Ottawa.
Patrick Henry Hughes
Good source by topic for the values we choose to live by. Thank you Jill Zuker, Teen Leadership teacher in West Ottawa.
Values.com
17 minute lecture putting things into a positive perspective. Thanks, Grand Haven teacher Aaron Blain, for the link and for being awesome!
The 3 A's of Awesome
Arthur visually demonstrates his persistence. Very inspiring!
Arthur Boorman - Gulf War Vet
2010 Valedictorian Speech at Booker T. Washington High School. Jaylen Young, thank you for the motivational link!
Deonte Bridges' Valedictorian Speech
20 min clip showing multiple younger kids describing their experience with battling cancer and demonstrating true courage.
The Face of Courage
Raffi shares his covenant for teaching young children. Thank you Micki Smokovich for sharing the link with me.
A Covenant for Honouring Children
Need your parking ticket validated? Here is a creative story of how validating can have a ripple effect. Thanks to my beautiful wife, Judy, for sharing this link.
Validation
A coach inspiring his team before a big game... thanks to Andrew Toronyi for sharing this link!
I am a champion
Poet named "Amjay" gives her semi-finals poetry slam performance from 2009. Thank you Lien Tran for sharing this with our 4th hour!
Poetry Slam
This link gives good info on why students should pursue college and directs students on steps to take.
Why College? How?_