In 2018, more than 800 educators from around the world gathered in Fort Worth, Texas for the World Positive Education Accelerator (WPEA) – and something powerful was set in motion.
From that gathering emerged the Positive Education Consortium, a nonprofit network that sparked an ongoing conversation about helping educators create thriving learning communities.
For eight years, Consortium members have advanced positive education by amplifying student voice, connecting research and practice, and collaborating with educators to create cultures where students and staff thrive.
The conversation continues...
Affecting Behavior Change: Seeing What’s Strong—Aligning Systems and Strengths for a Thriving School Culture
Thank you to everyone who joined our BECOME a Changemaker conversation on Affecting Behavior Change: Seeing What’s Strong—Aligning Systems and Strengths for a Thriving School Culture. Educators, leaders, and changemakers came together to explore how a strengths-based, Positive Psychology approach can help schools address behavioral challenges while fostering connection, belonging, and well-being.
Grounded in the theme of Openness, the conversation emphasized that building a flourishing school culture begins with intentionally noticing and developing what is strong in students, staff, and systems. Through examples shared by Fruitvale Schools, participants explored how strengths-based practices can be aligned with existing systems and initiatives. The Positivity Project was highlighted as one framework schools may choose to utilize to bring Positive Psychology principles to life and foster more connected, thriving school communities.
Led by Kimberli Breen, Jeff Bryan, Dominic Frisina, Eva Martinez, and Jasmine Bassilious, the session offered practical insights for supporting student success, educator well-being, and positive school culture.
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Next session: Thursday, June 18 at, 12:00 EST
Stories have the power to bridge generations, deepen understanding, and inspire meaningful growth. Through the theme of Motivation, this conversation explores how storytelling, reflective questioning, and the arts can strengthen relationships, foster empathy, and create a greater sense of belonging.
Grounded in Appreciative Inquiry, Peace Education, Positive Psychology, and arts-based practices, participants will examine how meaningful dialogue and shared experiences can help communities move from disconnection toward connection. Together, we'll explore how intergenerational learning can nurture well-being, engagement, and flourishing for individuals and communities alike.
Bravery - From Preparation to Purpose: Reimagining Teacher Education Through Positive Education
Energy - What Lights Students Up: Helping Young People Connect More Meaningfully to their Academic Journey
Creativity - Creative Strategies to Maintain Your Balance in a Constantly Changing World
Openness - Affecting Behavior Change: Seeing What’s Strong—Using Openness to Align Systems and Strengths for a Thriving School Culture.
Motivation: The Motivational Power of Intergenerational Connection Through the Power of Story.
Empowerment: Closing Reflections on the Co-Creative, Curious, and Courageous BECOME a Changemaker Conversations.
You can view recordings of the conversations below.
BRAVERY - From Preparation to Purpose: Reimagining Teacher Education Through Positive Education.
ENERGY - What Lights Students Up: Helping Young People Connect More Meaningfully to their Academic Journey
CREATIVITY - Creative Strategies to Maintain Your Balance in a Constantly Changing World
OPENNESS - Affecting Behavior Change: Seeing What’s Strong—Aligning Systems and Strengths for a Thriving School Culture
