"Derek Peterson is one of those rare individuals who can bring all of the stakeholders together and help them realize they have the power to make the difference in the lives of their children!"

Richard DeLorenzo
Former Superintendent, Chugach School District
Nation‘s first Baldridge Award Winner in Education

If our state had such a title, Derek Peterson would certainly be named "Alaska's Advocate for Children." His deep commitment to the well-being and success of kids lights up the Arctic night! No one else, on earth, could have sold ICE to Alaskans!

Say "Derek" to any group of teachers, school administrators or committed parents across Alaska, and they'd all add "Peterson!" with a smile, a joyful laugh and a pleasant memory of the last time they encountered/collaborated with him as the champion of youth this state. We all love him.

Father Michael Oleska

"Few in our field can weave traditional stories of strength along with research into a blanket of sound public policy and powerful practices to use with youth....Derek can knit such a blanket"

Lee Rush, Executive Director, JustCommunity, Inc. Perkasie, PA

Derek walks his talk. He is an advocate of (friend of, champion of, supporter of, believer in...) public education, its mission, its success, its future. Derek reminds us that each conversation, greeting and interaction with a young person can be life changing. Children, youth, educators, and communities trust Derek.  He works to develop skills to build bridgesthat connect and strengthen them.

Marilyn Rosene
Alaska Teacher of the Year 2000

Derek Peterson is an international leader in developing a community's capacity to develop it's own youth into capable, caring citizens! His message is compelling – across time zones, cultures, and languages, his spirit is contagious and his knowledge and perspective tremendous!  It is not an embellishment when you hear people say that the world is being made a better place due to the contributions of Derek Peterson. 

Karl Schleich, Elementary Principal
The American Community School of Athens, Greece

I endorse the work that Derek Peterson does whole-heartedly. He absolutely transformed the conversations about supporting youth from reactionary to proactive here in Alaska. His leadership with the ASSETS program with the Alaska School Boards Association and our school district is still alive and well. Our youth are learning important tools which foster resiliency and success in any culture, and our communities are stronger as they continue to use these same tools to support our youth Alaska style!"

Carol Comeau
Superintendent, Anchorage School District

I had the privilege of attending Alaska's 1st Caring and Connected Schools Summit facilitated by master educator, Derek Peterson. At this workshop, seasoned educators from around the state and various fields were reintroduced to the important role of our profession and why we need to be champions of students. Mr. Peterson is knowledgeable, experienced, familiar with current trends, and makes learning fun and applicable. He gets a double thumbs up!!

Sylvia Reynolds
Alaska State Board of Education

More than words, more than knowledge, and more than the great message you will get; meeting, hearing and working with Derek Peterson is an experience that will touch you deeply and leave you changed and motivated to reach out
and make life better for someone else.

Eric Gebhardt, Superintendent
Kake City Schools

Forget the boring lectures, text books and the PowerPoint projectors, Derek will energize your crowd with basic skills that you can begin using immediately.  You will never forget the balloons, the string and the message!  Helping your community help itself – that is the message that Derek brings – no need to buy expensive “systems” or “kits” – Derek will give you the skills and tools needed so that you can develop what you need and what is culturally competent for your community.

Bobbi Montgomery
Jackson, Ohio

"...a spiritual connection with students and adults.  Derek connects with your heart and challenges your soul to break education boundaries.  Derek can help you and your organization to identify your goals and reach them.  Challenges melt away in Derek's work - his leadership inspires collaboration and unites all stake holders.  Don't miss an opportunity to let Derek's spirit bless your world."

Arlie Swett. Director of Instruction and Student
Advocate. Denali School District, Healy, Alaska.