School

What Makes You Come Alive?

“Don't ask yourself what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” -Howard Thurman

Not only is this one of my favorite quotes but it is also the prompt for this week’s writing workshop episode. 

Here’s the backstory: 

I was an art major for my first 2 years in college.  It was amazing, and I met a lot of remarkable people. 

One of those people - Jordan Bierma - DMed me and asked if I “would be interested in participating in a storytelling project with my high school students.”

He shared that, “I work at a very small rural public school that follows an expeditionary learning model...With covid this year we have not been able to leave school and interact with anyone outside our small community of about 600 people.” 

I thought this would be amazing. 

Rather than focusing the entire time on myself, I suggested that instead I could host a writing workshop. 

This week’s episode is the recording of the creativity and honesty that transpired. 

I want to thank Jordan and the brilliant students at Silverton High School for being open to sharing their writing with all of us. 

Look - this is a crazy time for all of us. 

Getting centered on this question, “what makes you come alive,” is of paramount importance. 

I’d love for you to give yourself the gift of going through this workshop. 

You will come out the otherside with some newly discovered personal insights. 

Be sure to email or DM me your writing! 

I’d love to read it!

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Youth Development and Public School Education Expert Dr. Jenn Earl Foss

Today I talk to Dr. Jenn Earl Foss, a passionate public school educator with a strong background in advocating for ALL students.  Working in the field of education since 1995, Dr. Earl’s career spans across multiple states and school districts, but she has always served Title I communities. 

Dr. Jenn Earl Foss is also my sister! 

After completing her doctorate at Arizona State University, Jennifer began her adventure in California where she became the proud Principal of Herbert Hoover High School (HHS) in Glendale, California.  

Under Dr. Earl’s leadership, HHS has received many accolades and special recognitions.  Hoover High School was named a 2015 California Gold Ribbon School, including recognition for exemplary Arts program and Title I Academic Achieving High School.  HHS has Silver recognitions from both U.S. News and World Reports and Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS). Dr. Earl was named Secondary Principal of the Year in 2018 by Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and Mayor’s Commendation via the Character and Ethics Committee for her work with the Special Olympics in Glendale Unified School District (GUSD).

In her roles as coach, teacher, Student Council advisor, student advocate and administrator, Jenn has continuously maintained a growth mindset for herself and those she serves.  She has been trained by Gender Spectrum to create gender-sensitive and inclusive school environments.  Her strong belief in ALL students is evidenced in the many clubs and programs that have been developed under her leadership, such as UNICEF and “Sneaker Culture Club”.  Dr. Earl’s students are taught to leave their legacy by creating programs and clubs that they feel fit their needs. 

A lifetime learner and health fitness enthusiast, Jenn is currently working towards becoming a Pilates Instructor.  She shares her passion with athletes at her school and has hopes of sharing with the community on a larger scale.   

Jenn’s motto is to Choose Joy & Share Joy whenever possible.

I hope you enjoy this week’s episode.

You can follow Dr. Jenn on Instagram @docjae.

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If you'd like to learn more about T.H.E. Celebration Academy.  Here's 30 days of Free Membership.