In this episode, I chat with TaRael Kee, an Assistant Principal at Collinsville High School, a site-based trainer for the American School Counselor Association, and the Past-President of the Illinois School Counselor Association. He is the Founder of The Kee to Success YouTube Channel/Podcast and Successful Shopping Online Store. TaRael is also a published author.  He was named the Collinsville School District e-Educator of the Year (2017),  recognized by College Board in (2018), received the Lindenwood Alumni Spotlight (2019), and was awarded Illinois School Counselor of the Year (2021).  TaRael graduated from Lindenwood University with a specialist degree in Educational Leadership in May of 2021.

During our conversation, we talked about the impact that politics have on education, including how shipping migrants across the country affects the educational institutions receiving a sudden influx of students despite already struggling with a lack of resources. TaRael reflects on the ongoing battle between moral arguments and practicality. Yes, as educators we know and want to do what is right but are we equipped to always deliver on that message? We touch on the ongoing departure of educators as they are being left alone to figure it out and more often than not figure themselves out of the field. But … TaRael also leaves us with some words of wisdom … or should I say Kees to Success … on how we can respond to these challenges.

Ready to hear more? Let’s go.