Best Questers Library
Books written by educators, for educators.
Research-backed, heart-forward, and built for the real world of teaching and leading.
High Five to Thrive: Five Proven Practices to Unleash Your Passion for Teaching
You did not go into teaching to feel overwhelmed, invisible, or unsure why you are still doing this. High Five to Thrive is your guide to growing stronger, building resilience, and reconnecting with the purpose and joy that brought you to this work. Grounded in positive psychology and neuroscience, the five practices — Purpose, Hope, Mindset, Mind-Body Harmony, and Connections — give every educator, from pre-service and inservice teachers to veteran leaders, a practical, research foundational framework for thriving in one of the most important professions in the world. By integrating High Five to Thrive into coursework and clinical experiences, universities are preparing teachers who are not only instructionally strong, but also resilient, reflective, and equipped to help every student thrive.
Also available at: Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org | eBook editions
What Readers Are Saying
"Reading High Five to Thrive is like talking with a wise friend. Playful and fun in tone, it offers actionable, snack-sized tips based on the authors’ substantive knowledge of proven self-care practices." — Dr. Joyce Nutta, Professor, University of Central Florida
"High Five to Thrive is a powerful tool to combat educator burnout. Grounded in research and filled with practical strategies, this book empowers teachers to rekindle their passion for the vital work of teaching." — Dr. Jeremy Aldrich, CTE, Gifted, and World Language Programs Director, Harrisonburg City Schools
The BOOST Playbook: How to Engage and Support Multilingual Learners in Any Classroom
Every multilingual learner enters the classroom at a different level. The BOOST Playbook gives teachers twelve ready-to-use instructional moves that make content comprehensible, boost engagement, and support language development — while minimizing prep time. In fact, the AI prompts created by Best Questers supply appropriate materials in a matter of a click, click, click and BOOM, you have what you need! This is a game changer for every K-12 content teacher; making you the STAR you ARE! A practical, flexible, and built for any classroom, The BOOST Playbook is the guide teachers with multilingual learners have been waiting for. University partners are adopting this book to prepare their future teachers how to create these invaluable resources.
Also available at: Barnes & Noble | Bookshop.org | eBook editions
Coming Soon: Book Study Guides and Online Courses for both High Five to Thrive and The BOOST Playbook
We are currently developing book study guides and online courses to accompany our books — starting with a High Five to Thrive and The BOOST Playbook. Stay tuned, and join our community to be the first to know when they launch.
Meet Our High Five to Thrive Authors
Dr. Donita Grissom
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Donita Grissom is a passionate educator, mentor, and advocate for hope and empowerment. With a Ph.D. in TESOL from UCF, she has dedicated her career to teacher training, multilingual education, and cultural proficiency. A certified life coach and hope specialist, she uses research and experience to uplift others. As a professor, consultant, and speaker, she inspires educators worldwide to create meaningful change.
Debbie Simoes
President
Debbie Simões' journey began with a passion for teaching, inspired by giants like Zig Ziglar and John Maxwell. Despite a brain injury altering her path, she earned two M.Ed. degrees and became a leader in education. As the founder of Best Questers, she empowers educators through training, leadership, and connection. When not "Best-Questing," she enjoys her South Florida garden with her husband and pets.
Dr. Viki Kelchner
Vice-President
Dr. Viki Kelchner is a globally recognized expert in counseling and education, dedicated to supporting youth, families, and educators. A licensed professional counselor and school counselor, she has over 25 years of experience in mental health and trauma-informed practices. She trains future counselors and collaborates with schools to promote well-being. Passionate about self-care and inclusion, she’s currently writing a book on teacher wellness.
