MIKE BOZA

For more than four decades, I have had the privilege of spending my life where boys become men — in classrooms, on athletic fields, in counseling offices, and in countless conversations about character, purpose, resilience, and responsibility.

Over 45 years in education, I have learned that while academic achievement matters, the lessons that shape a young man's character often matter even more. My career has allowed me to serve students in many different roles: social studies teacher, coach, department head, athletic director, assistant principal for discipline, teacher talent developer, learning specialist, and now school counselor and Advanced Placement Psychology teacher. Each position has offered a different perspective on what young people need to flourish, but all have reinforced the same truth: boys thrive when caring adults intentionally guide them with high expectations, meaningful relationships, and unwavering belief in their potential.

Coaching has been one of the greatest joys of my professional life. As a cross country coach, I had the privilege of leading teams to four state championships while learning that success is built one practice, one decision, and one habit at a time. The principles that produce great athletes — discipline, perseverance, humility, accountability, and teamwork — are the same qualities that help boys grow into honorable men.

In 2012, I self-published Run, Rinse, Repeat, a book that explored the life lessons found through coaching and distance running. Launch Codes: Guiding Boys to Become Men of Character is the culmination of thousands of days spent working alongside adolescents and the adults who care for them — informed not only by robust research and professional experience but also by the stories, struggles, victories, and growth I have witnessed in generations of young men.

"I believe every boy possesses tremendous potential. He needs adults who will challenge him, encourage him, hold him accountable, and remind him that strength is measured not by power or status, but by integrity, compassion, courage, and service to others."