As a new year and semester begin, schools often take time to reflect on priorities, practices, and goals. Educators and leaders look for ways to strengthen engagement, improve outcomes, and better support students. Yet despite renewed intentions, many schools rely on...
At CoolSpeak, we meet student leaders everywhere, from packed auditoriums to small after-school clubs, and no matter the setting, one truth always stands out: leadership isn’t about having a title, it’s about learning how to take ownership of your own path. That’s why...
Bullying isn’t “kids being kids.” Bullying happens when someone is repeatedly unkind or hurtful on purpose, especially when there’s a power imbalance. Even the most supportive and attentive educators can’t see everything, which means the students who witness bullying...
In honor of National GEAR UP Week, CoolSpeak wanted to interview one of our own who is a proud GEAR UP alumnus. MJ Bridges knows the program’s impact doesn’t end at graduation. Growing up in Racine, Wisconsin, he participated in the Wisconsin Education Opportunity...
Dear Educators, If I could share just one thing with every advisor, counselor, coach, mentor, and everyone who works with student leaders… it would be this: remind your student leaders that leadership is not a title, it’s a responsibility. The skills they’re...
Incorporating social emotional learning (SEL) into the school day doesn’t have to be overwhelming; it can become a natural and seamless part of classroom learning. By intentionally integrating it throughout the day, teachers can help students develop emotional...
