Blog

Few people have the privilege of knowing someone who is 102 years old, mentally sharp, still working, and an enthusiastic reader. I am fortunate to know one of those remarkable people.

Rosemary Ziegler is the mother of the prolific author Dr. Dave Ziegler, one of the contributors to School Psychologists: From Surviving to Thriving. Dave recently gave Rosemary a copy of my book, and she finished reading it in just a few days.

Rosemary's life is a testament to curiosity, resilience, and lifelong...

In honor of National Teacher Appreciation Week, this story from Carol Dweck’s book, Mindset: The New Psychology of Success, illustrates the power of your noble profession. This is only a small token of my esteem for teachers' talents and immeasurable contributions to society.

One Great Teacher

Marva Collins taught Chicago children who had been judged and discarded. For many, her classroom was their last stop. One boy had been in and out of thirteen schools in four years. One stabbed children...

How school psychologists and teachers can manage testing-season stress using brain-based strategies

By the time March arrives, many educators feel as if the school year has shifted into overdrive. Testing season is approaching, seniors are hoping for the luck of the Irish as they count credits toward graduation, and end-of-year deadlines feel like jeans that won’t button. Stress levels rise for students and adults alike. The good news is that understanding how our brains respond to stressors...

Dear Readers,

This is the title of my latest book. I hope to publish it in mid 2026.

School Psychologists: From Surviving to Thriving contains 56 vignettes geared for early-career and seasoned school psychologists and anyone interested in the field of education.

Today’s school psychologist faces a myriad of challenges: school shooters, students dealing with sexual orientation issues, bullying, serious mental health issues, and excessive technological dependence. In addition, many school...

People read biographies to learn more about people they admire or better understand the motivations of those they despise. A great biographer offers a glimpse into the lives of noteworthy individuals. Readers share the individual’s journey, experience their triumphs and failures, and gain insights into their own lives.

I recently wrote a friend’s biography. The task took longer than the return on my five-year certificate of deposit, and I faced some unique challenges while crafting his life...

Tristan Peigné's memoir is an inspirational story of resilience, faith, and joy. Although Tristan faces numerous challenges on his career path—dyslexia, homelessness, illness, and injury--Tristan never gives up. As the son of a Caucasian-French mother and African American father with Cherokee roots, he hopes to help people who face a racial identity crisis or struggle for approval. Tristan likens being biracial to playing football and basketball simultaneously. "Should I punt or dunk?" he...