Over 1,400 participants attended the 17th annual National Youth At-Risk conference in Savannah, Georgia March 5-8, 2006.  Here, participants enjoy a dinner speech given by Dr. William Glasser.

The National Youth At Risk conference was held in Savannah, GA March 5-8, 2006.  In its 17tth year, the conference drew in over 1,400 participants from the United States and internationally.  The conference mission outlines the goals of its keynotes and more than 100 presentations by nationally and internationally recognized presenters: "the conference trains adults who serve youth to create safe, healthy, caring, and intellectually empowering educational environments that foster the well-being of all children and adolescents.  It supports the educational achievement, social-emotional development, and physical well-being of children who are placed at risk of school failure, social alienation, or physical harm.  It is hosted by the College of Education and the Continuing Education Center of Georgia Southern University in cooperation with various other regional universities, public school systems, and social agencies."

This year's conference featured Dr. William Glasser, President of the William Glasser Institute, and internationally recognized psychiatrist who is best known as the author of Reality Therapy and Quality Schools. 

"Steve is magnificent!  A master presenter--incredibly informed and a wonderfully engaging presenter.  I have heard him a number of times already, and he's consistently superior!  Bravo!"

"Excellent job!  He is motivating and concerned about the welfare of young people."

"Dr. Edwards is very realistic, motivational, and he really makes sense."

"Dr. Edwards is very educated in the field, and I felt his compassion for kids and the love for the work he does.  I think he is a shining star and we need more people like him.  In Africa Jahari means "precious jewel" and I believe he is sent from God."

"Exceptional and interesting speaker!"

"Dr. Edwards is passionate about engaging at risk youth, and his approach is effective and encouraging."

"The keynote was FANTASTIC!!  What a great way to start my first-ever conference.  Steve's enthusiasm prepared me for a long day.  Thank you!"

"Outstanding job!  I'll hire you to come work in my school if this Educational Service thing does not work out!"

"It's great that you can share your insight so honestly (something you don't see in 'traditional' educational settings)."

"Great sense of humor; you got the audience's attention and kept them laughing."

"We need more administrators that think like Steve, or who are at least open-minded enough to receive and apply this information."

"His use of humor to communicate kept us involved."

"I thoroughly enjoyed Steve's informative presentation.  It was very clear to me that he is knowledgeable in his area and enjoys sharing."

"By FAR the best, most applicable session I have been to in a while!"

"I liked what you said about dealing with policies and programs that are not working.  I plan to take this info back and share it with my administration and teachers.  Thank you for opening my eyes!"

"Very enthusiastic and energetic presenter."

"Very practical, valuable information and strategies."

"Motivating, empowering, and knowledgeable."

"I want to say thanks for breaking the info down into a way that was easily understood."

"Steve was very engaging and presented information that is practical and relevant."

"Wonderful presenter; great examples; great motivator!"

"You gave us a lot of information that is practical and applicable in all school settings."