by Ernesto Mejía | Jan 28, 2026 | Classroom, Family Engagement, Professional Development, Student Engagement
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...
by Lamarr Womble | Dec 2, 2025 | Classroom, Programming, Student Engagement, Student Leadership, Students
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...
by Laura Rizo | Dec 1, 2025 | Classroom, Social Emotional Learning, Student Engagement, Student Leadership, Students
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...
by MJ Bridges | Sep 17, 2025 | Career, Classroom, Programs, Student Engagement
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...
by Carlos Ojeda Jr. | Sep 7, 2025 | Professional Development, Student Engagement, Student Leadership, Students, Uncategorized
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...
by Laura Rizo | Jun 19, 2025 | Classroom, Professional Development, Social Emotional Learning, Student Engagement, Students
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...
