Stoic Philosophy for Teens: Learn Resilience, Self-Control, Courage, and Wisdom

In this class we will explore the principles, writings, applications and history of Stoicism as presented by Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, Zeno, Epictetus, Massimo Pigliucci and Ryan Holiday, founder of 'The Daily Stoic'.  The writings we discuss will be primarily focused on self-control, building resilience and courage, gaining and applying wisdom, navigating the path to self-betterment, and learning to incorporate new information into their own lives. Activities include discussion, reflection, video clips, reading quotes and passages from Stoic writers, analysis, and implementation of new knowledge. No previous experience is required to participate, enjoy and learn in this course. Below is a rough outline of the first few weeks of class.

Weeks 1 and 2 - Introductions and expectations, introduction to the principles and virtues of Stoic philosophy and its primary contributors, learner self-reflections on resilience and personal growth
Week 3 - Focus on Marcus Aurelius
Week 4 - Focus on Seneca
Week 5 - Focus on Zeno of Citium (considered the father of Stoicism)
Week 6 - Focus on Epictetus

As a dedicated educator, I believe that the greatest teaching values are centered around fostering a love for learning, encouraging critical and creative thinking, and promoting a positive and collaborative classroom environment. I am committed to providing timely and responsive communication with parents and learners within 24 hours. I also believe in providing personalized, objective feedback on the written projects that learners turn in, as I recognize the importance of constructive feedback in supporting their growth and development.

Quality is of utmost importance to me as an educator. I am committed to delivering high-quality instruction that is tailored to the unique needs and interests of my learners. I believe in using evidence-based instructional strategies and best practices in education. I continue to engage in professional development so that I can continually improve my teaching skills and provide the best possible education to my learners.

Service is at the heart of my teaching philosophy. I am dedicated to serving my learners and developing unique classes to engage their minds and creative spirits. I believe in building strong partnerships with learners to create a collaborative approach to their education, where students remain actively involved in their own learning journey. I strive to provide timely and constructive feedback to learners on their written projects, as I believe that feedback is crucial in guiding their progress. By fostering a supportive and welcoming classroom environment and maintaining open lines of communication, I aim to create a positive and enriching classroom experience for all my learners.

My teaching style has been described by colleagues and students as engaging, objective, unique, and focused.  One of my core beliefs is that every child is capable of learning and must be given the opportunity to grow and flourish academically, socially and intellectually.  I firmly believe that one's ability to precisely communicate thoughts and ideas to others through speaking and writing is one of the greatest ways to ensure future success in whatever domain one chooses to pursue. 






Stoicism, self, help, discover, learn, reading, writing, thinking, English, history, debate, high school, middle school, philosophy, comprehension