Dr. Nick Fuhrman — “Ranger Nick”

Dr. Nick “Ranger Nick” Fuhrman reminds educators that their most powerful tools are not perfect lesson plans; they are teachable moments, honest feedback, and genuine care. Through hilarious and heartfelt stories involving football players, special-needs campers, and a one-legged turtle named Sharon, Ranger Nick shows how even a few minutes with a student can change the trajectory of a life.

Drawing on his viral TED Talk and research at the University of Georgia, Nick distills decades of classroom experience into four simple habits of great teachers: celebrating mistakes, appreciating differences, relaying meaningful feedback, and continually evaluating their own practice. Educators walk away inspired, seen, and equipped with practical ways to turn everyday interactions into unforgettable lessons that help students feel braver, more connected, and truly cared for.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 

• Reframe mistakes, interruptions, and “off-script” moments as teachable moments and use simple strategies to turn them into powerful learning experiences.
• Apply practical techniques for giving feedback that is specific, encouraging, and motivating, so students actually want to try again.
• Use concrete ideas to help students manage communication anxiety, making it safer for even the most nervous learners to speak up and participate.
• Implement quick “reality checks” to evaluate their own teaching, gather honest input from students, and make small, meaningful adjustments.
• Leave with renewed confidence that they are making a difference and with everyday ways to show students that they are seen, valued, and cared for.

In this unforgettable assembly, Dr. Nick “Ranger Nick” Fuhrman shares how a brief visit from a park ranger changed his life—and how small moments of courage can do the same for students today. With live animals, hilarious real-life stories, and surprising lessons from some very unpredictable classroom guests, Ranger Nick shows students that mistakes aren’t failures, they’re launch pads.

From a one-legged turtle to a snake that “stole the show,” Nick demonstrates how confidence is built, not born, and why caring for others begins with noticing what’s right in front of you. Students leave laughing, leaning in, and looking at challenges differently—with the understanding that courage often starts with just one brave decision.

Learning Outcomes — Students Will Learn To:

• Reframe mistakes as teachable moments instead of setbacks.
• Use small acts of courage to manage anxiety and try something new.
• Recognize how caring for others builds connection and confidence.
• Shift focus outward to overcome nerves.
• Understand that one person—or one moment—can change the course of their future.