What is a Positive Educator?
A positive educator is a beacon of positivity, a catalyst for growth, and a source of inspiration. These leaders create environments where people feel safe, valued, and empowered to learn and lead.
Rooted in the science of well-being, positive educators intentionally foster connection, build on strengths, and help others navigate challenges with confidence and resilience.
Whether in schools, workplaces, or communities, positive educators ignite meaningful change and lasting impact.
Positive Education Certification
The Positive Education Certification (PEC Program™) was created by the Center for Postitive Education. It offers 64 hours of comprehensive training, combining interactive life experiences, and pre-recorded online modules with ready-to-use tools.
Rooted in the PERMA-V model of positive psychology, along with the principles of neuroscience, integrative health, and well-being science, this program equips you with the knowledge and effective strategies to foster growth, resilience, and meaningful change. Whether you are a teacher, leader, or coach, you will gain practical tools to create a lasting impact.
Elevate and Empower Those Around You
Learn strategies to:
- Boost Emotional Intelligence
- Develop Goal-Setting Skills
- Increase Resilience Skills
- Boost Self-Regulation
- Build Growth Mindset
- Prevent Hopelessness
- Develop Grit
- Increase Optimism
- Improve Communication
- Cultivate Relationships
- Reduce Anxiety
- Practice Mindfulness
- Increase Focus
- Reduce Bullying
- Raise Student Test Scores
"Participating in the Positive Educator Certification Course has been a transformative experience, and much of that is thanks to Christy Smith’s guidance and insight. Her deep understanding of adolescent development and practical application of positive psychology made the course not only inspiring but immediately usable in my sixth-grade classroom.
At the heart of the experience was the relationship that was fostered amongst my colleagues under Christy’s intelligent and intuitive leadership. Her extensive experience as a classroom teacher, and her breadth and depth of knowledge as a Positive Psychology practitioner was professionally and personally inspiring. From cultivating a positive mindset in students to identifying and nurturing their unique character strengths, each session was grounded in real classroom examples and supported with tools that actually work. Take a class with Christy...I'm certain you’ll feel better about yourself and your job!"
~Jodi Sabra, Radnor Middle School teacher, Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms; Library of Congress Ambassador
"I recently participated in a Positive Education professional development course facilitated by Christy Smith, and it was an outstanding experience. Christy's passion for wellbeing and education shines through in every session. She creates a warm, inclusive environment that encourages genuine reflection and practical application. Her deep knowledge, approachable style, and ability to connect theory with real-world teaching made the course both inspiring and immediately useful. I left feeling energized, supported, and better equipped to foster positivity and resilience in my students and myself."
~Caroline Way, The Shipley School, classroom teacher
“I just completed my Positive Education Certification with Christy, and she was a fantastic instructor. She kept me engaged throughout the different modules, taking the time during key moments to pause, reflect, and connect the content to personal experience. At times, we even found ourselves laughing when sharing our own stories, which made the learning experience feel authentic and refreshingly real. I left each day even more excited for the next session, eager to continue learning and growing. Her dedication and passion were evident in the way she empowered me to become the best version of myself, both in and out of the classroom. I am walking away with a wide range of strategies and techniques that I am excited to use to support the wellbeing of my students and my own children."
~Paula Farrell, The Shipley School, Lower School Coordinator of After-School Programs
