By now most of you know that Alissa Peichel has been the sparkplug behind the success of Minnesota Say Yes to No. Alissa was so captured by the importance of the Say Yes to No message that last May she signed on as the coordinator of the groundbreaking campaign. Today, one year later, at least five hundred Say Yes to No conversations have taken place with more being scheduled every day. Leaders in Michigan and Allen County, Indiana are busy getting ready to bring Say Yes to No to their states in the next school year.

Alissa’s talent and commitment transformed an idea into a movement that has drawn interest from around the world. More importantly, it has sparked conversations and decisions among parents and educators that will position our children and youth for success. A measure of the importance of Alissa’s work came from an elementary school teacher last month: “This could be the thing that not only saves our kids, but saves our society.”

Alissa has decided it is time for her to move on to her next adventure. She is leaving Say Yes to No at the end of this week and preparing to go on to graduate school. Please join me in thanking Alissa for laying the foundation that we can build on. Just click on the comment button and wish Alissa good luck in her future endeavors.

Dave Walsh