David Hagstrom is a teacher’s teacher. Those who have chosen to become educators have their idealism tested early. Over the years, through experiences with difficult students, parents, colleagues or communities, it is easy for teachers to become tired and broken. That’s when David is in his element. David reminds us why our souls yearned to teach in the first place. He doesn’t lecture or cajole. He shares. He plays. And he laughs. When David is done with you, you can’t wait to dive back into your chosen calling. It’s a gift he has shared with many.

David’s way of knowing is inquisitive and inviting. He knows that learning isn’t about being alone and he is always seeking new friends and teachers. We are the beneficiaries of his search. As David gets to know us better, he invites us in to discover new things about ourselves. He never insists that we join him there, but the invitation is always open.

David’s writing is yet another way that he invites us to learn more about ourselves. His thoughts and ideas aren’t just about vicarious enjoyment; they are spoken to each one of us. David’s poems, stories and musings seek us out to discover where they fit in our lives. We climb inside his words to try them on. Some fit right away and others take time to break in, but none is too flashy or embarrassing to wear. His words are our thoughts, our experiences and our beliefs.

Paul Andrews
High Desert Educational Service District
edmond Oregon

David has a gentle way of guiding us away from the frenzy of our fast-paced days and back towards the peaceful space that made us want to be in our profession in the first place. It is from this place of peace that I'll become a better educator and more able to lead a fulfilled, balanced life.

David's authentic leadership models honesty, integrity, and open communication. Our group learns by watching, by practicing, and by taking risks and growing together.

Many times when someone comes in to work with a group, it's to "save" them or show them how they should do things better or differently. When I've worked with David, he doesn't come in to save us, he comes in to help us clear away the clutter so we can learn how to save ourselves. Through work with David, we learn to trust our intuition, to trust our hearts, and to remember the reason we initially felt that our calling was to be with young people and teachers.

David's experience is with education. But I can imagine him working with any group, regardless of the field or make up of the group. David's authentic leadership style and genuine caring for individuals sets him apart from others. He'd be terrific whatever the group!

Deborah Peterson
Elementary School Principal
Portland, Oregon