Many educators reach a point where routine replaces purpose. The work still matters, but the spark feels dim. During a recent interview on the School Climate and Culture Show, Dwight Carter shared a journey that speaks directly to veteran educators who crave growth, clarity, and renewed impact. His experience inside the Within Our Ranks Inner Circle shows what happens when intention meets structure and community. I’m so proud of Dwight as a longtime friend and now a fellow educational speaker.

The Retreat Experience: Space to Reflect and Refocus

Dwight entered the Within Our Ranks retreat with decades of experience as a school leader, author, and speaker. Even with that background, he chose to show up as a learner. The retreat created space to slow down, reflect, and examine mindset. Conversations stretched beyond surface-level networking. Participants shared stories, challenges, and aspirations tied to real work in schools.

Dwight described the retreat as transformational because it showed the process in action. He connected with educators from classrooms, buildings, and districts. Each participant carried a desire to elevate influence and impact. The retreat introduced systems that built one idea upon another. Sessions focused on crafting messages, using voice and body language, and creating connections with audiences. The experience demanded effort. No one handed out shortcuts. The structure invited ownership and discipline.

One moment that sparked a connection involved a simple bow tie. Dwight shared the story behind it and how identity, consistency, and authenticity shape leadership presence. That small story reinforced a larger lesson from the retreat. Personal stories anchor professional influence. When educators embrace who they are, others lean in and listen.

Success in the Educational Speaking Space

Dwight brought years of leadership experience into the speaking world. Through Within Our Ranks, he learned how to translate that experience into clear, engaging messages for educators. He focused on mindset as the common thread across his books and presentations. Control the controllables became a guiding principle. Attitude and actions remained within reach even during disruption.

His speaking work now blends honesty with strategy. Dwight shares moments of failure alongside success. One story involved a lapse in patience that damaged trust with students and staff. He owned that moment and used it as a lesson in self-awareness and growth. Audiences connect with that authenticity because it reflects real school life.

The Inner Circle also expanded Dwight's professional network. He joined the National Speakers Association in Ohio, a step he never imagined before. That connection opened doors to resources, relationships, and future opportunities. Within Our Ranks helped him see what existed beyond his immediate circle and how to step into that space with confidence.

Continued Work Inside the Inner Circle

The retreat served as a beginning, not an ending. Dwight emphasized the value of continued engagement through the Inner Circle. Community events, coaching calls, and accountability check-ins sustained momentum for him. These structures mattered for busy educators who balance full schedules and heavy responsibilities.

Dwight explained how the Inner Circle helped him rebuild habits around writing and reflection. Early mornings on weekends became time for workouts and focused thinking. The Inner Circle reinforced the importance of systems: calendars, reminders, and clear goals guided action. The community asked direct questions. What did you say you would do? Where does that work live now?

This ongoing support allowed Dwight to refine his message around Be Great. His framework centers on gratitude, relationships, enthusiasm, authenticity, and teachability. The Inner Circle encouraged him to share those ideas through blogs, emails, and speaking opportunities. The process respected where he stood while pushing him forward with intention.

An Invitation to Step Forward

Dwight's story reflects what many veteran educators experience. Within Our Ranks offers tailored support for seasoned educators seeking renewed purpose, fostering confidence and reassurance that growth is possible at any stage.

For educators and administrators with more than ten years in the field, the question remains: Are you settling or stepping forward? The Within Our Ranks Community event or retreat invites you to reflect, refine, and re-engage with purpose through meaningful participation. Your story holds power, and with dedicated involvement, you can elevate others and expand your impact far beyond your school walls.

Email: [email protected] 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwightlcarter/ 

Website: https://mrdwightcarter.wixsite.com/begreat     https://dwightcarter.edublogs.org/ 

Books: https://dwightcarter.edublogs.org/publications/ 

Ten Minute Classroom Openers

 Do you want to transform your classroom into a lively, engaging, and connected space in five to ten minutes?

Picture this: You walk into your classroom, a room filled with eager students. You want to avoid diving straight into the day's lesson; you want to set the tone, create a positive atmosphere, and build critical student-teacher relationships. But how do you do that in just five to ten minutes?

Ten Minute Classroom Openers is a game-changer. Co-authored by Steve and Tina Dietrich, a seasoned counselor, this book is a treasure chest of brilliant classroom ideas. It's your secret weapon for nurturing a welcoming, inclusive, and exciting classroom environment. It’s packed with quick, fun, and interactive activities that you can effortlessly incorporate at the beginning of each class. They’re designed to help everyone settle in, focus, and be ready to learn. Foster that all-important connection between you and your students.

Have you ever felt that Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) is a heavy, time-consuming endeavor? Think again! Ten Minute Classroom Openers shows that creating a positive, supportive classroom atmosphere doesn't have to be a burden. These activities are designed to be quick and easy to implement. You don't need preparation or materials. Just open the book, pick an activity, and you're good to go!

And here's the best part: this book is incredibly user-friendly. The font size is large so that you won't need your reading glasses. You can simply open it, read an activity, and immediately engage your students. It's like having a classroom transformation at your fingertips.

 These openers warm up the room, hearts, and minds. Creating a classroom culture where students feel valued, engaged, and excited to learn.

 So, if you're ready to make your classroom the kind of place where students can't wait to come and learn, you need to get your hands on "Ten Minute Classroom Openers." It's available on Amazon, and YouthLite has ensured it's easy to access. Your students will thank you, and you'll see the difference in your classroom from day one. Transform your teaching and make every minute count with this fantastic resource. Get your copy today!

Motivational Student Rally Assembly

Administrators who seek to inspire and energize their students while reinforcing positive values will find tremendous value in bringing Steve’s Motivational Rally Student Assembly to their district. This dynamic and interactive program delivers an unforgettable experience that captivates students from the very first moment. Built around Steve’s powerful Stand TALL philosophy, the assembly encourages students to take responsibility for their actions, treat others with respect, and approach challenges with confidence and perseverance. The message is uplifting and impactful, designed to resonate long after the event ends.

Unlike traditional assemblies that rely on lengthy lectures or emotional appeals that fade quickly, this rally combines energy, humor, and meaningful life lessons to connect with students at every grade level. Staff members will also benefit from seeing the Stand TALL philosophy in action, reinforcing a shared culture of respect, responsibility, and resilience throughout the school. Administrators who want to create a unified, motivated environment for both students and staff will find this assembly to be a powerful catalyst for positive change. Email me directly at [email protected] for scheduling and more information. 

Community

Every last Thursday of the month, educators from across the country join the Within Our Ranks Community Zoom Event to connect, share, and discuss all things speaking, training, and consulting. It is a space for honest conversations about what professional development and speaking look like in the evolving world of K-12 education. These conversations are powerful, insightful, and engaging, whether you are just starting or already in the field. Next month's guest is Jacob Broig! Join us in shaping the future of educational speaking!

Who: https://www.withinourranks.com/community/jacobroig 

When: February 26, 2026 

Where: Zoom Register here

As a professional speaker, I travel worldwide speaking at schools and organizations.  Jet lag is a thing of the past for me, thanks to FlyKitt. You have to check them out! Visit FlyKitt, use the coupon code STANDTALL for 10% off, and tell them Stand Tall Steve sent you!