Theme 1: Goal Setting, Decision Making and Problem Solving

This theme was chosen by Everest 200 Expedition Leader Byron Smith to carry his key message to students participating in the education program. He wants every child to hear his message promoting self-confidence, perseverance and the ability to solve problems through smart decision making. As a successful businessman, an avid climber, and a father and husband, he wants to tell students, "you can be and do anything you want in life if you believe in yourself and want it badly enough."

Activity 1: Heroes - Goal Setting for Success!
(Divisions I - IV, grades 1 to 12)

Students will explore the characteristics of heroes, conventional and unconventional. Students will expand their definition of hero, recognize heroes in their community and neighborhood, and recognize their own heroic qualities. The objective is to motivate students to set goals and work towards them with drive and perseverance.

Activity 2: Stairway to Everest and Training Challenges: Energy and the Human Body
(Divisions I-IV)

Details for these challenges are located under Theme 3: Energy and the Human Body, however, there is a strong connection between the Stairway to Everest and Training Challenges and the Goal Setting projects. Stairway to Everest, including the Training Challenge, requires students to set goals, create a plan to meet them, monitor their progress, and make decisions as they continually adjust their plan to meet their goals.