About Sam

I believe in impact.  My work is rooted in the idea that when students are empowered with the right mindset, skills, and opportunities, they can create fulfilling lives for themselves.  As a systems thinker, I view education from both a high-level strategic perspective and a deeply personal, student-centered approach—understanding how each decision affects long-term success.

With over two decades of experience as a teacher, school counselor, and career coach, I have developed a unique perspective on education, career development, and the role of lifelong learning.  My journey led me to explore alternative education models like unschooling and classical education, which reshaped my understanding of how we prepare students for life beyond the classroom.

🔹 Questions Over Answers – I believe that the key to growth lies in asking the right questions, not just knowing the right answers.  Education should foster curiosity, not compliance.

🔹 Teaching the Student, Not Just the Curriculum – Learning should be an individualized experience that empowers students to use knowledge as a tool, rather than forcing them to conform to rigid systems.

🔹 Lifelong Learning Over Test-Driven Education – True education isn’t about memorizing facts but about developing a mindset of continuous growth, inquiry, and adaptability.

🔹 Interdependence Over Dependence – The best learning happens in environments where teachers and students engage in a mutually beneficial relationship of discovery and development.

As a consultant and coach, I help schools and educators build systems that work for students, not just for institutions.  Some of my key contributions include:

✅ Creating Career Development Programs – I designed a four-year career development program and The Career Factors for Students coaching program to help young people make informed career choices.

✅ Guiding Schools in Hiring & Retention – I developed onboarding and retention strategies to help schools build strong, mission-driven teams.

✅ Coaching School Counselors – I provide support for counselors looking to better serve students and improve career readiness programs.

Beyond my work with schools, I have authored several books to help students and families navigate education and career planning, including:

📖 The Career Factors: Unlock Fulfilling Work… Right Where You Are (2023)
📖 Hire Education: The Consumer’s Guide to Paying for College on Your Terms (2020)
📖 Choose the Perfect College: Help Your Child Ask the Right Questions and Find the Best Schools for Them (2016)

I’m always eager to collaborate with educators, schools, and parents who share my passion for empowering students.