Teaching Kids to Thrive: Essential Skills for Success

About Debbie Thompson SilverDedra A. Stafford

Dr. Debbie Silver is a humorist consultant and retired educator with over thirty years of experience as a classroom teacher staff development facilitator and university professor. As a classroom teacher Debbie won numerous awards including the 1990 Louisiana Teacher of the Year award. She speaks worldwide on issues involving education and is a passionate advocate for students and teachers.  Debbie wrote the best-selling books Drumming to the Beat of Different Marchers and Fall Down 7 Times Get Up 8. She co-wrote the best-selling Teaching Kids to Thrive. In 1990 Debbie Pace and Lawrence Silver merged their families of 3 boys (Debbie) and 2 boys (Lawrence) as they married and eventually both earned their doctorate degrees (to form a pair-a-docs). They currently reside in Melissa TX.  One of the nations most popular keynote speakers and professional development presenters Debbie has given presentations around the world (including 49 states Hey Delaware lets talk! Canada Mexico Europe the Middle East Australia Africa and Asia) helping audiences to interact with students on a more meaningful level.  While inspiring educators to enjoy the job they once loved she reminds them of how important they are in the lives of children their families and the world. Through her writing and her speaking she makes essential points while sharing poignant stories and lots of laughs. Dedra Stafford is a dedicated consultant and a proud member of the Association of Middle Level Education and National Association of Secondary School Principals Speakers Cadres. She is an Educational Speaker and has presented at international national state and local conferences across the nation including NMSA (National Middle School Association) sharing inspirational ideas from technology to school climate. Dedra is passionate about providing quality staff development for educators. She an internationally known speaker trainer and author in the educational world. Dedra creates entertaining workshops that get crowds energized motivated and inspired to be their best for the students they serve. As a former classroom teacher she understands the need for professional development where practical ideas can be implemented immediately into the classroom. She creates fun-filled workshops designed to be hands-on and interactive. Dedra has a unique ability to put educators at ease as she teaches concepts and beliefs incorporated with humor in a user friendly way. She speaks on the topics of about technology climate curriculum and classroom techniques resulting in her audience laughing learning and having new enthusiasm for their work.