We may teach our children many great lessons in a lifetime, but the ones that make a lasting impact are the practices we model and live by. Parents often write in and inquire about ways to teach their children some core values, such as kindness, empathy, and compassion. Our Guest Expert this week Andrea “Dre” Carnegie, has spent much of his life inspiring others to live better and fuller lives, a motto he calls ‘Life on Life Investing’. Dre is not only an inspiration, but his authenticity and generosity leave you feeling fuller after just a few short moments of being in his presence. Maybe teaching our children to believe in themselves and wanting to inspire others is not that trickey…. Possibly it starts with us being that mentor for our children and those around us. Mentorship does not require endless praise or material possessions, but as Dre mentions, a listening ear, a non-judgemental response, and, at times, accountability. As we invest in our children and build them up, the return will be greater confidence and motivation, as well as a desire to treat others the way they have been treated. 

Andrea “Dre” Carnegie is the Student Success Coach with the Shawnee Mission School District, Kansas. He has over 17 years of experience working in education. He specializes in building authentic relationships and is responsible for supporting students, staff, and families throughout the Shawnee Mission School District. Dre works very closely with Principals, Counselors, and Social Workers in the work he does daily. He is involved in Deep Equity work with SMSD and is one of the “Train the Trainers”. This work includes training staff to lead Deep Equity work in their buildings. Dre loves to invest in, encourage, motivate, and spur on others and the students he works with. He is a powerful force in the SMSD and uses his positive attitude and tireless energy to help clothes succeed. In addition, Dre owns a consulting business, and runs an AAU Youth Track and field program in the Kansas City area. Dres loves to workout, attend Bible studies, travel and spend time with his dog Cable. 

Dre Carnegie (@DreSuccessCoach) / Twitter

Nathan Cable Summers (@cabledre) | Instagram