Why Viki Kelchner Wrote High Five to Thrive: The Story Behind the Cool and Calm Kit

Teaching is one of the most rewarding yet demanding professions. Educators pour their energy,

time, and heart into their students every day, often neglecting their own well-being in the

process. Recognizing this struggle, Viki Kelchner set out to create a resource that would help

teachers thrive, not just survive in their careers. That’s how High Five to Thrive was born—a

book designed to provide teachers with practical strategies for reducing stress, fostering

resilience, and reigniting their passion for teaching.

At the heart of the book is one of its most powerful tools: The Cool and Calm Kit.

The Cool and Calm Kit: A Game-Changer for Teacher Well-Being

Viki Kelchner knew from personal experience and research that teachers need quick, effective

ways to manage stress in real time. Long hours, high expectations, and emotional demands can

take a toll, leading to burnout, frustration, and even questioning one’s ability to stay in the

profession. To combat this, she created the Cool and Calm Kit, a simple yet transformative

approach to helping educators regain focus, balance, and peace throughout their day.

The Cool and Calm Kit isn’t about adding one more thing to an already overflowing plate—it’s

about integrating small, science-backed strategies into a teacher’s daily routine. These tools

help regulate emotions, reduce anxiety, and maintain a positive mindset, allowing teachers to

show up for their students with clarity, confidence, and renewed energy.

Why High Five to Thrive Matters

Viki’s mission in writing High Five to Thrive was to empower teachers with practical

strategies that are easy to implement and truly make a difference. The book walks educators

through:

✅ Reconnecting with their “why” – Remembering their purpose and passion for teaching.

✅ Transforming challenges into opportunities – Shifting their mindset to approach problems

with confidence.

✅ Managing stress effectively – Using simple techniques like the Cool and Calm Kit to maintain

focus and well-being.

✅ Building meaningful connections – Strengthening relationships with colleagues, students,

and themselves.

✅ Cultivating resilience – Learning how to bounce back from setbacks with strength and

optimism.

A Message to Educators: You Deserve to Thrive

Viki Kelchner wrote High Five to Thrive because she believes in teachers. She understands the

unique pressures of the profession and wants every educator to know: You are not alone, and

there are tools to help you navigate the challenges.

The Cool and Calm Kit is just one of many powerful strategies in the book designed to support

teacher wellness, professional growth, and a renewed sense of joy in the classroom.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or burned out, this book is for you. Because teaching isn’t just

about surviving—it’s about thriving.

What’s your go-to strategy for staying calm in the classroom? Share in the comments

below! ⬇️