Just Do This...

Hey gang, I have something powerful to share with you. As a seasoned educator and school climate and culture expert, I want to talk about something every school, every district, and every educator needs now more than ever: alignment, action, and culture that works.

I recently released my newest book, Just Do This… The message is clear. The mission is urgent. Schools everywhere feel the pressure to perform, improve scores, meet the needs of every learner, and stay motivated during times of uncertainty. Some feel disconnected. Others feel stuck. That is where this book comes in. It's a practical guide, structured into twelve chapters, each focusing on a specific aspect of school culture and performance.

We Must Get on the Same Page

One of the most significant issues nationwide is a lack of alignment. You cannot have teachers doing one thing, administrators doing something else, and district leadership working off a totally different plan. That creates confusion, stress, and burnout. This book helps schools at every level—classroom, school, and district—get on the same page.

You see, culture grows from consistency. That means the language, expectations, and values need to stay unified. When students walk into school, they should feel the same support whether they are in math class or gym, whether they speak to a counselor or the principal. That only happens when schools lead with clarity and stay aligned in action.

Immediate Ideas, Instant Impact

Educators want solutions they can use right now. That is why I ensured Just Do This... offers real, practical approaches. You do not need to wait for a new budget or a board decision. You do not need a new initiative or committee. You just need to choose one strategy from the book and do it.

From improving hallway behavior to shifting the tone in staff meetings, the book gives clear action steps. The pages are full of research-based ideas, not theory. I give you the “do now” steps that change culture quickly. The power of this book comes from simplicity. Pick one idea, act on it, and build from there. Just do this.

Reduce, Not Eliminate

One of my favorite concepts in the book is this: Reduce, not eliminate. Too often, schools try to overhaul everything. They attempt to eliminate every problem all at once. That leads to burnout and frustration. Instead, what if you simply reduced the issues, problems, or concerns?

Reduce interruptions, miscommunications, and negativity. Small reductions create significant improvements. You do not need perfection. You need progress. When you reduce, you create space—for learning, connections, and culture to grow.

Climate and Culture Thrive on Purpose

School culture does not happen by chance. You do not stumble into a positive climate. It takes intention. The choices you make, the language you use, the systems you design—all of that builds or breaks culture. In this book, I show you how to make choices that support a healthy, thriving climate and culture.

Culture does not hide in mission statements. It lives in your daily actions. Students win when those actions happen on purpose across classrooms, buildings, and districts.

A Message for Challenging Times

Let me be honest. Right now, schools face real concerns. There are budget cuts, rising student needs, staff fatigue, and yes—even the announcement of the closure of the Department of Education. That news creates worry and uncertainty. But that is why this book matters even more.

Just Do This... answers the question: What can I do today that makes a difference?

The truth is, leadership still matters. Classroom relationships still matter. Climate and culture still matter. No matter what changes on the outside, your choices inside the school still shape the experience for every student and staff member. You still hold power.

Just Do This… does not ignore the challenges. It speaks directly to them—with hope, clarity, and action. It gives educators a sense of direction, a reminder that their work holds value and that they can still lead with purpose.

Bring the Work to Life

If you want to bring these ideas into your school or district, I want to help. I do not just write about school culture—I live it, speak it, and train teams across the country to build it.

When I visit schools worldwide, I bring the same energy you see in the book. My professional development sessions energize your team, clarify your goals, and give your people practical tools they can use immediately. We laugh, learn, and walk away ready to lead.

This is your time. Do not wait for someone else to fix the culture or another initiative. Just Do This… pick up the book, take the first step, and stand tall together.

Your students need it. Your staff needs it. And you—you are the one who can lead it.  

Grab your copy of “Just Do This…” and take the first step toward more decisive leadership, stronger schools, and a happier you.

And when you finish a chapter, share it. Start conversations. Push your team. Lift your students. Build momentum. Let us build the climate and culture your school deserves.

Order Now! 

Big Changes Coming to Education and Within Our Ranks

Education is shifting, and professional development is evolving. As schools face new challenges, there is a growing demand for expert educators to step into the roles of speakers, trainers, and consultants. Within Our Ranks is at the forefront of this movement, creating opportunities for educators to develop their voice, refine their skills, and expand their impact beyond the classroom. Here’s what’s coming up!

Within Our Ranks Mile High Pop-Up Event

June 10-12, 2025

Denver, Colorado

The Mile High Pop-Up is a must-attend event for those ready to take the leap into professional speaking, training, or consulting. Taking place in Denver, Colorado, from June 10-12, this exclusive gathering will bring together a dedicated team of educators looking to elevate their expertise. Participants will receive hands-on coaching, actionable strategies, and real-world insights to help them launch or expand their professional speaking careers. If you are in the area and ready to grow, this event is for you!

Book a discovery call for more information!

Within Our Ranks Three-Day Retreat

June 26-28, 2025

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Later in June, the Within Our Ranks Retreat in Philadelphia will provide a comprehensive deep dive into the business of educational speaking. Held over three days, this retreat will cover branding, marketing, content creation, and securing paid speaking engagements. Thanks to our partnership with Fort Hays State University, you can earn college credits for attending the retreat, This is the perfect space for educators who want to transform their knowledge and experience into a powerful message that resonates with audiences.
https://www.withinourranks.com/

Within Our Ranks Community Zoom Monthly Events

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 real 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.

Join us in shaping the future of educational speaking!
When: April 24th, 2025  7 PM EST
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!