Many years ago (more than I care to remember), I participated in a seminar that certified me as a “trainer” for a program called Teacher Expectations and Student Achievement (TESA).  Based on the work of American sociologist Robert Merton (The Self-Fulfilling Prophecy) and research conducted within the Los Angeles Unified School District, the program was designed to assist educators in understanding how a student’s perception of identified teacher behaviors (both conscious and unconscious) served to hinder or foster student achievement.…

It’s been an interesting week.  On Tuesday afternoon I attended an event entitled, “Reading Rising”  The program utilized a TED-talk format that encouraged a number of local artists, entrepreneurs and educators to share their stories of the positive, economic, and community momentum rising up in the heart of the City of Reading.  Following the event, I had the opportunity to talk with Kyle, a young professional who recently moved into the City.  Following the program he was truly excited. He shared that he too was optimistic.…

I trust you had a good weekend and I hope that you took time to thank a veteran for the incredible sacrifices he/she made that enable us to enjoy the lives we have today. 

On Friday I had the honor of attending a Veterans’ Day luncheon.  Retired General Stanley McChrystal served as the guest speaker.  His presentation was humorous, moving, and informing. Prior to the event, I had the opportunity to meet the General and receive a copy of his most recent publication, My Share of the Task.…

Did you have the opportunity to enjoy the full moon on Friday night?  It was the perfect Autumn evening.  I lit a fire in the chiminea, poured two drinks (one for me, one for my Dad), and enjoyed a fine cigar.  As I sat by the fire, memories of my childhood came back, especially those that included sitting on the porch with him.  Those times were treasured, as my Dad was rarely home in the evening.  During the day he commuted to Center-city Philadelphia.…

If you help enough other people get

everything they want out of life,

You will get everything you want out of life!

                                                                                                                                         – Zig Ziglar

Good Afternoon!  Last January in a newsletter entitled “Self-worth and Creativity”, I alluded to the work of Zig Ziglar.  He is one of many “Positive Thinkers” that have impacted my approach to leadership and life.  As a junior high school principal I taught one of his courses entitled, “See You At the Top”.  The course was designed to provide adolescents with an understanding of the importance of embracing a positive attitude, and letting it guide their daily behavior.…