‘Cool, Calm, Collected,’ UDC Assistant Professor Authors Children’s Book Teaching Children How to Deal with Anger

Dr. Delarious O. Stewart, an assistant professor of school counseling and coordinator of the University of the District of Columbia’s school counseling concentration, is making waves in education with his debut children’s book, “Cool, Calm, Collected: Jamal’s Journey to Managing His Anger,” now available on Amazon.

Stewart’s inspiration for crafting this transformative work draws from his extensive background as an educator, educational leader, and mental health professional in schools across the country.

With over 15 years of experience in K-12 schools as a teacher, counselor, school psychologist, and district leader, Dr. Stewart brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to the well-being and education of every child. His journey from serving as press secretary for the late Rep. Elijah Cummings (D-Md.) to earning advanced degrees in school psychology and educational leadership underscores his unwavering dedication to transforming the education landscape for the better.

During his tenure in schools, he observed a profound gap in the emotional education of certain children, particularly in their ability to understand and manage their emotions within the classroom.

“In my journey through schools, I have seen a glaring disparity in how emotional needs are met, especially for Black boys. The pressing reality is that their emotional development often goes unaddressed in a way that is both intentional and comprehensive,” Stewart said.

The book emerges as a powerful response to this critical unmet need. Stewart’s work creates a safe and engaging space for young readers, offering Black boys essential tools to navigate the complexities of their feelings. He underscores that “teaching emotional intelligence is not an option; it must be a necessity to empower these young minds to excel academically and thrive in all aspects of life.”

Additionally, Stewart sheds light on a concerning trend in education where schools tend to resort to punitive measures for behavioral issues rather than providing guidance and instruction. He passionately advocates for a change in perspective, highlighting that suspension alone is inadequate as an intervention strategy. Drawing a parallel with academic challenges, he asserts that just as struggling readers aren’t sent home, misbehaving students should be taught expected behavior.

“Cool, Calm, Collected” not only imparts practical tools to navigate anger and frustration constructively but also fosters a safe environment for young readers to explore their emotions.

Through relatable characters and real-life scenarios, Stewart’s storytelling captures the essence of emotional growth and empowerment.

In an era where discussions around diversity, equity, and inclusion are gaining momentum, Stewart’s work takes on profound significance. He acknowledges the unique challenges Black boys face in managing their emotions and emphasizes that “Cool, Calm, Collected” equips them not only to understand and manage their feelings but also to develop essential skills for success in school and beyond.

Stewart expressed that “this work is meant to be more than just a book; it’s meant to be a testament to the power of literature as a tool for social change.” He believes that it has the potential to transform the emotional landscape of young Black boys, contributing to a more inclusive and empathetic society that recognizes and values their unique experiences.

As discussions on education, diversity, and emotional well-being continue to gain momentum, Stewart intends for his debut book to serve as a beacon of hope and a reminder of the importance of fostering emotional intelligence in young minds. By addressing this critical need, “Cool, Calm, Collected” has the potential to make a profound impact on the lives of Black boys and the broader community.