Testimonials

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“TR’s speech about a Zebra’s true colors and calling on his fellow students to get closer to people we ordinarily don’t talk to, was outright inspiring.  An idea like T.H.E. Zebra Initiative could positively change the world and I believe someone like TR can truly lead the charge with this profound Zebra analogy.  His admonition to take a closer look at each other (our true colors) and seek to interact in a meaningful way will help elevate the school district for the coming year.  For the 2024-2025 school year,  the LGUSD theme will be “Get Close to the Zebra.”  In this theme, all staff including administrators, teachers, and support staff will be encouraged to step outside our comfort zone and engage with others we don’t know, whether it be colleagues or students, to see other’s true colors.   The Zebra theme fits perfectly with where LGUSD must go to elevate the learning and school environments.”

Paul Johnson, Superintendent at Los Gatos Union School District

“TR’s vision for our school, our community and our world brings me hope. At Fisher, we are excited to embrace T.H.E. Zebra Initiative as we learn more about each other and search for the true colors! I am so impressed with the maturity and composure of TR and his eagerness to improve the world around him. It will be my pleasure to watch him change the world!”

Mary Lonhart, Principal at Fisher Middle School

“T.H.E. Zebra Initiative is exactly what our world needs! It is a challenge to take a closer look at others but more often than not, we find things that bring us together and connect us. I’m hopeful that our students can lead the charge with this idea, following in TR’s footsteps. It is truly incredible what one voice, one idea, can lead to. Thank you TR for inspiring all of us to search for each other’s true colors.”

Jenny Anderson, Principal at Van Meter Elementary School

“T.H.E. Zebra Initiative demonstrates the passion and dedication that T.R. brings to the importance of creating connection amongst human beings. As we emphasize this message in our district, it has already inspired many connections amongst zebras who otherwise may not have gotten to know each other. I look forward to seeing how he continues to change the world for the better!“

Sara Tiscareno-Kennedy, Vice-Principal at FIsher Middle School

“Cool Initiative- Awesome that the District is picking it up as a theme and a great example of how a small kindness and reminder to make the effort to connect with others you do not know is worth it.”

Connie Hubbard, President at Holy Names High School, Former Superintendent at Piedmont Unified School District

“TR’s speech and T.H.E. Zebra Initiative is so inspiring and powerful! This important message is especially needed in today’s social climate where there is a lot of hate,  judgement and a lack of understanding of each other, so we need to take the time to understand each other more by “getting close to the zebra.” I am very proud of TR and I look forward to watching and supporting his amazing work with T.H.E. Zebra Initiative! ”

Savannah Henry, District Counselor at LGUSD

“TR is an amazing young person! He delivered his important message eloquently to over 300 staff members with poise. Thank you TR for the important work that you are doing with T.H.E. Zebra Initiative and for inspiring our learning community!”

Kristie Mullikan, Counselor at Fisher Middle School

“It’s such a great analogy. So relatable for kids – the zebra. Even really little kids could learn that lesson. Meaningful on many levels.”

Karen Gnusti, Former Executive Director of College, Career, and Secondary Ed at San Mateo County Office of Education

“I was blown away by TR’s message and so impressed that he has created this initiative. Everyone should hear his message. It’s very eye
opening! I love how our district has chosen it for this year’s motto.“

Michelle Avlas, Instructional Assistant at LGUSD

“Wow! Brilliant! It was a great speech. I loved his topic and using his voice to make a change!”

Mark Webber, Director of Webber’s Ed-Teacher Talent

“TR did an amazing job and the message is so powerful. I know a lot of adults who could benefit by listening to this.”

Amy Despars, Teacher at Blossom Hill Elementary School

“Loved the delivery and the ideas he expressed. He is inspirational!”

Diane Cottle, Educational Counselor

“Wow! He’s so good! He should submit for a Tedtalk. Amazing and great storytelling! Go TR!”

Marlo Lyons, Career, Executive, and Team Coach

“I love this. Just watched the YouTube recording. Exceptional command of his material, excellent presence and delivery and sprinkled in humor. He hit the trifecta. I am impressed.”

Frank Czyz, VP UiPath