“There weren’t many times I was excited to walk into the school, but once I started your program, there wasn’t a single day I wasn’t happy to come into the classroom.” - Carter, student

"The normal school environment was not a safe space because I couldn't just show up. I had to put on a facade and on top of that get good grades and be social. In Rivers, I was able to show up in whatever form I was in that day. It was always a place where I could safely express how I was feeling. Michael always knew how to gauge the situation. Michael radiates positive, creative, wild energy that everyone returns. He creates a space where we all want to learn. It is not a chore, it is interesting and incredibly rewarding." - Maggie, student

“Your passion inspires. Not only me but my peers and your peers. Your creativity and positive energy is unmatched and you are kind to everyone around you.” - Jon, student

“Because of you and your zeal, my daughter allowed herself to open up and show her true self.” - Kim, parent

“You inspire every single one of us with your compassion and ability to freestyle to any beat.” - Will, student

“I really can’t imagine where I would be without the program and most importantly you. Through numerous ways, you’ve put me on a path towards greatness and ambition.” - Mike, student

“Making yourself available to all the students was always a priority for you. You invited their questions, concerns, and needs, and somehow had the magical ability to make each student feel as if they were the most important!” - MaryAnn, colleague

“You are such an inspiration to everyone’s life you touch and I am so blessed to be one of them. Your constant support and love for everyone make this world a better place.” - Kaylee, student

“You are one of the most insightful, thoughtful, careful, passionate, and enthusiastic teachers—people—I am sure most of your students have ever met. You singlehandedly connected with so many people, especially us cold, shut down and emotionally unavailable teenagers.” - Taylor, student

“The program taught me so much about myself, and you have allowed me to realize that it’s ok to fail. You made me comfortable taking risks I normally would not have taken. You caused me to become a more caring and better person. You helped me form genuine relationships with people I normally wouldn’t have even talked to. “ - Pat, student

“Thank you for saving my life. I hated school and you made me want to come in every day and learn. You saved me from dropping out or using, because that was the path I was on. You rescued me and made it possible for me to go to college.” - Joe, student

“I really appreciate your presence and caring nature. Your help yesterday was critical to managing the terrible tragedy and really made a difference for each student with whom you made contact. But my thanks is much more than the effort of one day - the relationships your have forged stem from your demeanor, tenor, and actions of each and every day. We are grateful to have you as a faculty member.” - Jess, colleague

“Rivers and Revolutions represents the interactive learning that all students should have all the time. My daughter was inspired, turned on, engaged, and enthused.” - Halle, parent

“Thank you. You have not only opened the door to new possibilities of learning and growing but ushered your students inside. You bring life, love, and compassion to the classroom in a way that is so genuine.” - Elle, student

“By creating this program, you have changed my life and many others. This experience helped me so much with my anxiety and depression.” - Pat, student

“My mind is now more awake. Thank you for radiating love and happiness at all times even if you weren’t feeling that way on the inside. Thank you for making me a better person, and thank you for being you.” - Isabelle, student

“I look at everything differently and more optimistically.” - Kenzie, student

“You have helped me see all the beauty in the world.” - Zach, student

“You helped me figure out that I have a voice, and taught me how to use it more.” - Nala, student

“I have learned so much from you and have learned to love deeper and appreciate more.” - Zoe, student

“What does good teaching look like? Michael Goodwin. Seriously, thank you for being such an excellent and adventurous teacher. I appreciate your effort to include all learners in every activity. I appreciate your passion and excitement for teaching, and for learning as well. I cannot remember another teacher who truly made me love learning and being a student as much as you.” - Julianna, student

“Your enthusiasm and positivity are infectious - I left each section meeting more excited about the possibilities in education reform than when I walked in!” - Dora, student

“If I can emulate 10% of your teaching next year to my students, I will be one of the most effective teachers ever, thanks in large part to your inspiration.” - James, student

“You are one of the best damn teachers in the universe. You help stir a revolution in me every day.” - Cece, student