Thanking: High Schools, Youth Centers, Churches and Other Entities

“As of the date of this episode, we have over four thousand downloads.”Order My Book: www.weusoursluckybooks.comLesson Plan: From Classrooms to Community — What I Can DoGrade Level: 7–12Length: 20–30 minutesTheme: Agency, resilience, and self‑determinationCore Quote: “During struggles, always ask what I can do—never what I can’t do.” — Lucky1. Learning ObjectivesStudents will be able to:Identify how focusing on “what I can do” builds momentum, confidence, and problem‑solving skills.Apply the “can‑do” mindset to real academic, social, or personal challenges they face.2. Learning OutcomesBy the end of the lesson, students will:Outcome 1: Describe a struggle they’ve experienced and name at least one action they can take to move forward.Example: “I’m behind in math, but I can ask for help after school.”Outcome 2: Demonstrate the ability to reframe negative thinking by turning a “can’t” statement into a “can” statement.Example: “I can’t afford college” becomes “I can explore scholarships, grants, and community programs.”3. Mini‑Lesson (Teacher Script – 3 minutes)“Struggle is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign that you’re growing. When challenges hit, most people ask, ‘What can’t I do?’ That question builds walls.But when you ask, ‘What can I do?’ you open doors. You activate your power, your creativity, and your next step. This mindset is how students become achievers — in high schools, recreation centers, churches, and every community space that believes in you.”4. Activity: “Flip the Script” (10 minutes)1. Give students a list of common struggle statements:“I can’t pass this class.”“I can’t focus.”“I can’t see myself in college.”“I can’t change my situation.”2. Students rewrite each one into a can‑do action:“I can ask for tutoring.”“I can put my phone away during work time.”“I can explore majors that fit me.”“I can take one step today.”3. Invite 2–3 volunteers to share.5. Community Connection (3 minutes)Teacher says:“High schools, recreation centers, and churches are not just buildings — they are launchpads. They are places where adults invest in you, believe in you, and help you see what you can do. This is why the Metro State Black Student Achievers Podcast exists: to show you real students who chose action over limitation.”6. Formative Assessment (Quick Check – 2 minutes)Students complete one prompt:“One struggle I’m facing is ____. One thing I can do about it is ____.”Teacher collects or has students share aloud.7. Closing Affirmation (Teacher Reads Aloud)“Struggles don’t define you. Your next step does. Ask what you can do — and watch your life move.”Contact: 773-809-8594 DO NOT TEXT