Ordinary Heroes: Teenage Adversity Inspires Acts of Courage (Hardcover) (ISBN-13: 9781436319249)

As an educator of 39 years, Jim has noted a wide variety of accomplishments, behavior and human interaction in high school age students. Through diverse classes, athletics and activities he has observed a larger than normal number of humorous, dynamic and even tragic occurrences. This book deals with a rich and wide variety of heroic actions accomplished by ordinary young people. Academics, athletics, student government and social interaction are addressed in a variety of situations. Jim has taught subjects such as history, economics, weights and conditioning, career education, Geography, Human Services, English and numerous others. His coaching experience includes numerous roles, assignments and sports. He has assisted in football, basketball, baseball and track. He has been a head coach for 16 years in football, 14 in basketball and other sports such as golf, tennis, track and softball. Throughout all of these experiences, his love of Psychology and human behavior can be noted in each story. "I feel fortunate to have experienced and viewed such special and powerful accomplishments by so many young people," Jim stated. Many are unique and merit reflection and consideration. The few included in this book are diverse and reveal actions that go far beyond expectations or cultural limitations. Yet, they all have a common thread of strength and heroism that has had a lasting effect on students and educators alike.