Lessons from the Bad Kids

Reviews / Votes

Lessons from the Bad Kids serves as a dynamic reminder of the power of resilience! The authors carefully craft compelling narratives that give readers up close and personalaccess to children and their amazing journeys. The book reminds us why we teach in the first place. It affirms my belief that children can overcome almost anything if given love and support. This is required reading for those of us who are still in the trenches! -- John W. Hodge, president, Urban Learning and Leadership Center This book is a must-read for those who seek to truly understand the daily struggle of an increasing number of young people whose basic needs are not being met and the impact this is having on our education system and society as a whole. They have been discounted, discarded, and dismissed as 'bad kids.' The stories of these children's lives will break your heart and, at the same time, lift your spirit as you come to realize that every one of us has the ability to change the course of a child's life simply by giving three gifts that cost nothing, yet mean everything-time, attention, and unconditional love. -- Amy Woods, director of Secondary Curriculum, former high school principal For any educator, mental health provider, or parent, Lessons from the Bad Kids is a must read. It is a captivating glimpse into at-risk youths' lives that teaches strategies for making meaningful connections with others in the classrooms, therapy sessions, and life. -- Allyson Ashley, ACSW, LCSW This is a book that provides us with an authentic understanding of the lives of some of our high school students, helping us to see beyond the data. Viland and Turner provide us with memorable images of real student lives, their feelings, their hopes, and their efforts as they make their way through school and through each day. It also tells the story of an exceptional school and district and the determination of the adults who try to help the students succeed. It is a book that asks us to examine the ways we spend our time as educators and how we can do more for the students we serve. This is a valuable read for anyone entering education today. -- Beth B. Higbee, assistant superintendent, Education Support Services, San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools