Last week, 10th and 11th grade students at JEC High School had an amazing opportunity to hear a powerful story and message from Jon Pritkin, a world-traveling motivational speaker and coach. Aside from breaking a baseball bat over his knee and rolling up a frying pan as if it were made of paper, Pritkin shared his own, very moving and very personal story, charging the boys to broaden their sensitivities to others. After a standing ovation at the completion of his talk, each student went up to thank him for his words and for moving them to action.

Pritkin also stopped by the JEC Middle School, captivating students with his heartfelt and inspirational story and his incredible feats of strength. In keeping with the theme of the year, “Be A Mentch,” Jon told a story about how each and every one of us can be a hero by acting with inclusivity, kindness and support towards one another. Students had the opportunity for a question and answer session while eating lunch with Pritkin. It was a powerful program which was enjoyed by all students and faculty.