Towards a Mentor Mindset

At the most recent LEAD Together event, a group of parents, teachers, and administrators gathered to discuss the book “10 to 25” by Dr. David Yeager (a must-read for anyone living or working with today’s young people).  

Backed by extensive research, Dr. Yeager explains that the “Mentor Mindset” is one of the most effective ways to motivate those between ages 10 and 25. It entails setting exceptionally high standards with equally strong support while meeting young people’s essential needs for status and respect in an ever-changing world.  

While the presentation  — still available online for Seven Hills families — was powerful, my favorite part of the evening was the conversation that followed. Our discussion group consisted of seven parents and teachers with children ranging from 4 months to 30 years and a wide variety of professional and personal backgrounds.

Yet, we were united by one shared goal: our children’s success, fulfillment, and happiness.  

In a recent interview, Yeager noted that “young people have an innate need to be respected and admired. But, few leaders today — whether parents, educators, or managers — understand how to harness it.”  

During this short hour, each participant shared hopes, fears, and ideas of how we might take the next step, individually and as a community, and how powerful it would be to extend this conversation to every member of our community.

Prominent author Malcolm Gladwell wrote that every societal transformation reaches a “tipping point,” a moment when change becomes inevitable. In the Seven Hills community, I believe that moment is already here, and we are on the cusp of rapid progress.  

The school-parent partnership continues to get stronger each year; we are so grateful for the strong attendance we’ve had at divisional and LEAD Together parent sessions throughout 2025-26.  

Unification presents a myriad of opportunities to try new ideas, bring communities together, and build synergy through greater flexibility. Students’ confidence will grow as they see that all of the adults in their lives — parents, teachers, and community members — are working together as trusted mentors guiding them toward successful independence. 

The conversation circle is waiting for each of us. Pull up a chair, share your voice, and let’s do something amazing.