What We Do
We work with schools, school districts, and any organization who believes in the enduring promise of children. We identify the most powerful techniques that help all students learn. We focus on a few key levers to impact those hard-to-reach students, and we design lessons that build academic confidence in helping all students reach grade-level proficiency.
Our Passion / Our Purpose
We have a profound belief in teachers and a love of all children. We are a passionate team of educators who value teacher experience and voice. That’s why we call on top-notch teachers to help us lead the work. We bring energy and expertise in service to schools, districts, and organizations that serve children and families. We offer talks, trainings, and retreats to anyone who needs a little inspiration, along with some great strategy talk. Call on us to support your event or join us for an upcoming retreat because, every once in a while, it is important for all of us to review our purpose and renew our vows.
Lead Teacher / Trainer
Dan is our lead teacher and trainer. At least, that’s what he thinks 🙂
He has committed his life to supporting and celebrating children and teachers. He has led an accomplished career as a teacher and leader and is a sought-after speaker and trainer, using an inspiring mix of humor, personal narrative, and practical teacher advice. He describes himself as “one half teacher, one half poet, and one half humorist.” In other words, he thinks he is funny even when others do not.
Like so many of us, Dan stared down his own childhood struggles and turned despair and defeat into a lifetime of success through faith and love for children and teachers. He is a former Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Chief Academic Officer. Dan’s expertise in literacy best practices and high-yield instructional strategies drives his passion for what works in schools. His first book Instructional Soul debuted in 2019, and his follow up guidebook to instructional best practice is scheduled for release in 2025.
He is currently an adjunct professor, as well as a trainer and mentor to teachers and leaders. Yes, it is true that Dan sometimes refers to himself in third person (we’re not making this up), and that he quotes a lot of dusty old books that he reads solely to avoid his wife’s “Honey Do” lists (no, seriously). Oh, and one more thing, he still believes in the power of schools and in the brilliance of teachers to change the trajectory of children’s lives, as it did for him so many years ago.
