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Nika Maples
2007 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year, author, and stroke survivor
Nika Maples Speech Topics
Laughter is the Best Medicine: Learning to Use Life’s Most Powerful Tool
In her most popular keynote, Nika shares some of her embarrassing moments as Texas Teacher of the Year and reminds us of the importance of laughter through the touching account of her lifelong struggle with chronic illness. “Joy is a treasure, and like any treasure, it must be hunted and...
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The Ricochet: Waiting for a Good Return
The classroom and the marketplace are not as different as one might think. Both teachers and business people are “selling” something of value to, at times, skeptical consumers. With humor and emotion, Nika offers insight into ways that we can shift our perspective to selflessly serve others and...
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A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: Working Together to Make Work Better
Nothing invigorates productivity like a trustworthy and enjoyable environment. Through the humorous stories of some “freaky neighbors” she has had over the years, Nika illustrates the reality that everyone has a a different story, and it is that variety that makes our working community beautiful....
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May the Force Be with You: Engaging the Mystery of Student Motivation
Through a workshop format that is ideal for professional development, Nika opens the door of her classroom via photographs and videos of her students at work and play. Participants engage in small groups and walk away with new ideas to add excitement and interest to their lessons. “Students come...
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Student Under Construction: Building Academics Upon a Foundation of Character
Encouraging teachers and parents to focus on honor as an entryway to academics, Nika outlines the tenants of good character. “Strong character and a sense of self uplift the human spirit. We must emphasize integrity. Integrity will take kids where they need to go. By upholding lives of virtue...
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