It’s easy to assume that schools are fully meeting children’s needs—but the evidence suggests otherwise. Despite well-intentioned programs and policies, many schools are not making meaningful progress in addressing inequities, fostering respect, or teaching children the skills they need to thrive. When systems fall short, it becomes essential for parents and children to speak up for themselves.
Many parents want to advocate but hesitate. They fear retaliation against their child, are told to “trust the educators,” or feel dismissed when their child’s voice is minimized. Others simply do not have the tools or knowledge to ask the right questions or navigate complex educational systems. At the same time, discipline has shifted toward passive approaches that fail to teach accountability, respect, or self-discipline. Reward-based systems like PBIS, while well-intentioned, focus on external incentives rather than nurturing children’s natural desire to do well, leaving students without meaningful guidance to develop intrinsic motivation or community responsibility.
TEACHING POSITIVE addresses these challenges head-on. As a school administrator and educational consultant I have come to learn that parents can be more equipped with the tools or practical strategies to advocate effectively at school, while also teaching children the confidence and skills to speak up for themselves.
When families learn to advocate, they become catalysts for meaningful change—ensuring that schools live up to the promise of educating every child.
Core academic rigor approaches that align with social-emotional learning (SEL) focus on integrating emotional and social development with academic content, fostering a holistic educational experience. Here are some approaches:
By integrating these approaches, schools can create a learning environment that not only challenges students academically but also nurtures their emotional development, fostering resilience, motivation, and a lifelong love of learning.Our online learning programs offer interactive lessons that engage and challenge students. Our curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from math and science to history and literature.