Dr. Manuel Scott
From high school dropout to Ph.D. I love helping educators reach, teach, and empower students.
Through keynotes, seminars, school assemblies, webinars, books, videos, and other information resources, I have helped thousands of schools and organizations raise student achievement, develop intercultural competence, and improve leader efficacy in 49 states; and, I have helped prevent thousands of dropouts and suicides.
Good morning! Today, I’m getting myself "Salty" to speak to the amazing staff of Elmira and Spencer-Van Etten School Districts. Their theme for the day is Be The One—for your students, your colleagues, and your community.
In the face of many challenges, I'm going to do my best to remind them that one relationship, one moment of impact, can change everything. Whether they're in the classroom, on the bus, or supporting from behind the scenes, each person has the power to make a real difference. I'm looking forward to meeting them!
Education is not just about teaching facts; it’s about lighting a fire of curiosity that drives students to seek knowledge on their own.
Since I am working in NY this week, we asked, "Why not?" And yes, Christopher is walking around NY with his shirt off. LOL!
💥 Double-Duty: Speaking at Bath Central School District Today 💥
Just finished speaking at Corning Painted Post. Now headed to speak at Bath Central School District. I'll be talking about The Power of One— everyone matters, and every moment counts.
🎉 Kicking Off the 24-25 School Year with the Corning Painted Post School District 🎉
Today, I’m thrilled to be speaking to the dedicated staff of the Corning Painted Post School District as they begin the 24-25 school year. The theme for this year is Power of One, and I’m here to remind everyone that each person in this district plays an essential role in our students’ lives. From bus drivers to teachers to custodial staff, every moment you spend with a student can change their life. You set the tone for the entire year, and your influence is immeasurable.
I’m still reflecting on how powerful and special it was to speak to the amazing professionals of THE Special School District in St. Louis, MO. For the first time in over a decade, the entire staff came together, thanks to the visionary leadership of Dr. Maclin and his dedicated team. When Dr. Maclin told me he wanted me to speak to his staff, I knew it would be a day to remember. It was truly an honor to be there on such a beautiful, impactful day!
When educators choose to care deeply, they don’t just teach—they change the trajectory of lives.
A single act of encouragement from a teacher can ignite a lifetime of ambition in a student. Never underestimate the power of your words.
Honored to be invited by Dr. Savage, the superintendent of Moline Schools, who remembered me from an event 10 years ago. She brought me in to speak to her entire district, recognizing the lasting impact of my message. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to inspire and serve this remarkable community.
Today, I’m in Hathorn, MA working alongside educators as they begin a new school year. Our focus is on the incredible power educators have to create a culture and climate that can truly change the course of their students’ lives. Be salty today!
Education isn’t just about filling minds with knowledge; it’s about filling hearts with courage to face the world with confidence and kindness.
Fired Up to Launch the New School Year for Schools New Bedford, MA!
Today, I have the privilege of speaking to educators in New Bedford as they gear up for another year full of growth, challenges, and endless opportunities. I’m going to share some of my hard-earned wisdom about the power of meeting students where they are, pushing them to reach higher, and standing strong as their advocates.
Teaching goes beyond the classroom—it’s about inspiring, guiding, and showing every student that greatness is within their reach. I can’t wait to connect with these passionate educators and remind them just how much of a difference they make in young lives. Let’s make this school year one to remember!
A teacher’s belief in their students can be the difference between a life of struggle and a life of success.
I’ve had the privilege of speaking in countless venues, but the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater in Vail truly took my breath away. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, this setting made my time with the incredible staff of Eagle City Schools even more meaningful. It was an absolute joy to connect with such passionate educators in such a magnificent place.
Man, it was so good to run into fellow education speaker and friend, Robert Jackson today at the airport. We met nearly 20 years ago in Indianapolis, and have supported each other since. The circle of national and international education speakers like us is quite small. So, I love it whenever I get to cross paths with him and Principal Kafele, DrTommie Mabry, and several others who are doing important work in education.
He is heading to Virginia, and I'm heading to Massachusetts, to do what we do.
No matter what your dreams are, they can come true if you're willing to put in the effort to reach them.
It is much better to try and fail than to never try at all. Anything worth doing is worth doing poorly the first time.
Some of the most extraordinary people I’ve met are those who dedicate their lives to our schools—teachers, admins, coaches, custodians, nurses, and more. Their love for students touches my heart and blesses my soul every day.
Arrogance is a combination of ego and ignorance, often rooted in insecurity. When you have self-confidence, and a sense of security about yourself, you don’t need the affirmation of others.
If you want to achieve anything in life, you have to make sure that you have the right beliefs in your head and heart to get you there.
Culture is a collective programming of the mind that distinguishes the members of one group or category of people from another. Study culture- yours and your students.'
It was an incredible experience speaking to 3,500 educators at Northwest ISD's convocation. Last year, I spoke to them about the Power of One. This year, I delivered a follow-up keynote on the Power of Relationships. Friends, even on your worst day, you can be a student's best hope!.
Your history can be an antidote to your current uncertainties. Look back at how much you've overcome, and declare to yourself boldly, "I made it through that, and I’m going to make it through this!"
Honored to be in Schenectady today, speaking with a group of passionate educators and leaders. With years of experience in countless schools and a deep understanding of the challenges educators face, I’m excited to share insights on the power of education.
Today’s discussion will focus on the importance of believing in the transformative power of education, maintaining high standards, and cultivating environments where students can thrive. It’s about inspiring hope, fostering curiosity, and confronting the challenges that hinder student success. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
The best lessons are not always in the curriculum—they are in the moments when teachers connect with students and show them their worth.
If you want to help anyone, you must help them make decisions that lead to actions.
Changing your attitude can transform your teaching. Greet each day with love and gratitude.
Success is not about doing what feels good. It’s easy to do things that you enjoy doing; but to be great, you are going to have to do a whole lot of things that you do not enjoy doing.
Educator, your voice has power. Your hope has power. Your love has power. Don't underestimate it. Use your voice to encourage, teach, correct, help, heal, and uplift the (young) people around you. You never know what they are going through!
Don't just listen to what people say they believe. Watch what they do. Words lie, but actions reveal the truth. Listen with your eyes wide open.