Being an educator is hard work, and it’s easy to doubt whether we’re making a difference in the lives of our students. In Stories of EduInfluence, veteran educator Brent Coley shares stories from more than two decades in the classroom and front office, stories illustrating the life-changing power we possess.
In each chapter, Brent transparently recalls experiences as a classroom teacher and site administrator, from humble successes to epic failures. These stories focus on the unique powers every educator possesses, powers that comprise what Brent calls EduInfluence. Each power focuses on a particular belief that, if embraced, can transform one’s practice, and chapters end with reflection questions to help readers take what they’ve read and apply it in their own classrooms, offices or at home with their own kids. If you have ever become discouraged and asked yourself, “Am I making a difference?” this book is for you. If you’re looking for encouragement and inspiration conveyed through stories that will make you smile, laugh, and even cry, this book is for you. Because you do make a difference, every single day, even when you don’t realize it! |
Want to learn more about the book?
Read the Introduction here! 
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What Readers Are Saying...
"I HIGHLY recommend this book! I dug into this book and immediately had all the feels! I laughed. I cried. I was challenged to think and challenged to reflect; I sat and contemplated how my new awareness of #EduInfluence would transform my own actions. This book is a labor of love and the author, Brent Coley, has so many incredible pieces of wisdom to share. He writes candidly about his own experiences as an educator and the lessons he's learned along the way. This book really will open your eyes to see how your own actions, conversations, interactions and more will leave a lasting impact on your immediate learning community and beyond. As you read this book, you will be inspired to make changes, take risks, and do incredible things...and use your #EduInfluence in positive ways!"
— Ann Kozma, Teacher Innovation Lead at Flipgrid
“I wish this book on every educator. It is finally time for the pendulum to swing back in this direction—Brent reminds us all that schools run on relationships, and that we each have more EduInfluence than we may imagine.”
— John Eick, Executive Director of Westlake Charter School
"I've read it and swear by it. My favorite book for teachers of all time. This is a survival guide, source of soul-satisfying inspiration, and a how-to book as well for all aspiring teachers, seasoned veterans, and everyone in between. Go out & get it now!"
— Alex McMurray, Middle School Teacher
"What a delightful book! Brent Coley's storytelling feels welcome, and comfortable (like sitting down with an old friend). He has a way of sharing both sides of the coin in such a manner that you feel that you are on the journey with him. He shares practical strategies to keep in mind during our daily interactions with children, parents, and staff. He touches on several strategies, we as educators know, but definitely need to come back to and circle around again more often. I would encourage all, especially new teachers, to get and read this book before setting foot in the classroom again this Fall. I love when a book provides hands-on ways to start making a difference as soon as you are done reading!"
— Lisa Gaede, Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist
“The origins of education can be traced back to master storytellers. Every educator has a story, and the wisdom that lives in these stories can make us better for the children we serve. Author Brent Coley offers us the opportunity to engage with real stories that have real substance for real educators. He takes the reader on a powerful journey, all the while offering questions and prompts for our learning and reflection. Coley’s Stories of EduInfluence is a must-read for teachers and school leaders alike who value the shared wisdom and experience storytelling offers us.”
— Weston Kieschnick, Senior Fellow for International Center for Leadership in Education and Bestselling Author of Bold School and Breaking Bold
“Brent Coley’s Stories of EduInfluence is an opportunity to be inspired. Stories are indeed the focus, but these are stories that direct us to see what we do in new ways, to re-evaluate what's important in our work, and to remember that what we say and do can make a life-changing difference for children. While Coley's classroom experience (and most of his stories) center on elementary students, there is something in every chapter to speak to teachers of all ages. This is a great gathering of discussion prompts, and a strong addition to any school's PD library.”
— Rushton Hurley, Executive Director of Next Vista for Learning and Author of Making Your Teaching Something Special and Making Your School Something Special
"Brent’s insight is honest and transparent. Great stories and POV about all things educators need and experience. Get this book today!"
— Jeff Kubiak, School Principal and Author of One Drop of Kindness
"'Chicken Soup for the Soul' and a great reminder why we put in long hours and lay awake at night thinking about our students. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. At times we need to be reminded to teach to the whole child and that we are the lucky ones that get to benefit by having our students in our lives."
— Amazon Customer, 2nd Grade Teacher
"Teaching is a difficult job ~ and full of surprises. Brent Coley’s book is a must read for all educators. His stories will elicit roars of laughter and hit you in the gut at the same time. You can’t help but find yourself reflecting on “why” you pursued an educational career, and how you can make tomorrow better for students and staff. Treat yourself to this book whether you are a teacher or an administrator. It’s a fun and fast read that you will reference over and over again!"
— Kim Ciabattini, School Principal
“As educators, we are tasked with so many different roles, that we often forget one of the most important—influencer. In Stories of EduInfluence, Brent reminds us of the powerful impact we have on those around us. Chock-full of stories from the heart and practical examples, this is a must-read for anyone in the field of education.”
— Cori Orlando, Teacher, Blogger, and Presenter
— Ann Kozma, Teacher Innovation Lead at Flipgrid
“I wish this book on every educator. It is finally time for the pendulum to swing back in this direction—Brent reminds us all that schools run on relationships, and that we each have more EduInfluence than we may imagine.”
— John Eick, Executive Director of Westlake Charter School
"I've read it and swear by it. My favorite book for teachers of all time. This is a survival guide, source of soul-satisfying inspiration, and a how-to book as well for all aspiring teachers, seasoned veterans, and everyone in between. Go out & get it now!"
— Alex McMurray, Middle School Teacher
"What a delightful book! Brent Coley's storytelling feels welcome, and comfortable (like sitting down with an old friend). He has a way of sharing both sides of the coin in such a manner that you feel that you are on the journey with him. He shares practical strategies to keep in mind during our daily interactions with children, parents, and staff. He touches on several strategies, we as educators know, but definitely need to come back to and circle around again more often. I would encourage all, especially new teachers, to get and read this book before setting foot in the classroom again this Fall. I love when a book provides hands-on ways to start making a difference as soon as you are done reading!"
— Lisa Gaede, Elementary Speech-Language Pathologist
“The origins of education can be traced back to master storytellers. Every educator has a story, and the wisdom that lives in these stories can make us better for the children we serve. Author Brent Coley offers us the opportunity to engage with real stories that have real substance for real educators. He takes the reader on a powerful journey, all the while offering questions and prompts for our learning and reflection. Coley’s Stories of EduInfluence is a must-read for teachers and school leaders alike who value the shared wisdom and experience storytelling offers us.”
— Weston Kieschnick, Senior Fellow for International Center for Leadership in Education and Bestselling Author of Bold School and Breaking Bold
“Brent Coley’s Stories of EduInfluence is an opportunity to be inspired. Stories are indeed the focus, but these are stories that direct us to see what we do in new ways, to re-evaluate what's important in our work, and to remember that what we say and do can make a life-changing difference for children. While Coley's classroom experience (and most of his stories) center on elementary students, there is something in every chapter to speak to teachers of all ages. This is a great gathering of discussion prompts, and a strong addition to any school's PD library.”
— Rushton Hurley, Executive Director of Next Vista for Learning and Author of Making Your Teaching Something Special and Making Your School Something Special
"Brent’s insight is honest and transparent. Great stories and POV about all things educators need and experience. Get this book today!"
— Jeff Kubiak, School Principal and Author of One Drop of Kindness
"'Chicken Soup for the Soul' and a great reminder why we put in long hours and lay awake at night thinking about our students. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. At times we need to be reminded to teach to the whole child and that we are the lucky ones that get to benefit by having our students in our lives."
— Amazon Customer, 2nd Grade Teacher
"Teaching is a difficult job ~ and full of surprises. Brent Coley’s book is a must read for all educators. His stories will elicit roars of laughter and hit you in the gut at the same time. You can’t help but find yourself reflecting on “why” you pursued an educational career, and how you can make tomorrow better for students and staff. Treat yourself to this book whether you are a teacher or an administrator. It’s a fun and fast read that you will reference over and over again!"
— Kim Ciabattini, School Principal
“As educators, we are tasked with so many different roles, that we often forget one of the most important—influencer. In Stories of EduInfluence, Brent reminds us of the powerful impact we have on those around us. Chock-full of stories from the heart and practical examples, this is a must-read for anyone in the field of education.”
— Cori Orlando, Teacher, Blogger, and Presenter
Order your copy today! Available in paperback, Kindle, and audiobook!
