Parent Education Presentation

10 to 25—The Science of Motivating Young People

Thursday, February 19, 2026
San Antonio Academy — Ellison Hall
6:00–8:00 PM

How do we motivate young people to rise to challenges and do their best work?

San Antonio Academy invites you to a practical and engaging parent education presentation with David Yeager, renowned psychologist, researcher, and author of 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People.

Yeager’s research focuses on what truly motivates young people ages 10 to 25. He explains why traditional approaches often fall short and introduces the “mentor mindset,” a research-backed approach that emphasizes respect, high expectations, and clear communication. He offers highly effective and surprisingly easy-to-learn practices: like being transparent about your goals rather than expecting your mentees to read your mind, or holding your students to high standards rather than coddling them. This practical, engaging talk is crucial for anyone who wants to be a more effective manager, parent, or educator.

Through SAA's speaker series, families gain access to best-selling authors, renowned educators, and leading professionals who share valuable insights on today’s most relevant topics in parenting and education. These engaging presentations keep our community informed, inspired, and equipped to support boys in both school and life.

Event is free of charge and directed toward parents, grandparents,
professionals, and interested community members.

ABOUT THE PRESENTER

David S. Yeager, PhD, is a Professor of Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin and co-founder of the Texas Behavioral Science and Policy Institute. A leading researcher in adolescent development, he focuses on motivation, social cognition, aggression, and psychological interventions to improve educational outcomes and reduce inequities. His work, often in collaboration with scholars like Carol Dweck and Angela Duckworth, explores how brief interventions can enhance motivation, mental health, and resilience in young people aged 10–25. Yeager is the author of the USA Today bestseller 10 to 25: The Science of Motivating Young People, which promotes a "mentor mindset" to engage youth effectively. Before his research career, he taught middle school in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He holds a PhD and MA from Stanford University, an M.Ed. and BA from the University of Notre Dame, and has received numerous awards for his contributions to psychology and education. His research has been featured in major outlets like The New York Times and The Atlantic, and he has consulted for organizations including Google, Microsoft, and the World Bank.