9th Grade: Story Series Sean Sterling

NBPS Alumni Sean Sterling

“We’re not just playing music—we’re telling our story together. That’s what makes it real.” — Sean Sterling, on recording Blindside.

N.E.S.T. 25-26

Story Series

N.E.S.T.

PROMOTES THE "ART OF CONVERSATION"THROUGH SOCIAL INTERACTION. WE KINDLY URGE YOU TO stay mindful and be present.

continue

october

SEL Theme: Belonging, Empathy Connection

Sean's reflections on friendship, hard work, and shared moments in fine arts deeply resonates with themes of connection and belonging, especially for students navigating identity, community, and creative expression.

continue

Sean Sterling

Lead Vocalist of Chained Saint

• Sterling is currently studying music at Frost with University of Miami.
• Debut Album: Blindside (2024)

Produced by William DuVall (Alice in Chains).

• Single “Stronger Than Stone (Blindside)” reached Top 5 on U.S. Metal Radio airplay charts.
• Song “Animosity” was the theme for WWE 2K24 DLC 4 trailer
• Over 2 million streams on DSPs (Spotify, Apple Music).
• Featured on 49+ user playlists and 7 editorial playlists.
• 2.5 million+ views on YouTube for official music videos
• Currently Touring all throughout the United States

continue

Purpose:

Sean’s experience ignites self-reflection and opens pathways to new ways of thinking together.

continue

N.e.s.t.

who am I

Sean would call his band,"A raw source of energy."

“We didn’t just become a band. We became brothers through the work.” — Sean Sterling

continue

'What stands out?'

continue

Belonging

in the everyday

continue

The Impact

Sean shares a moment from fine arts—packing equipment with friends, performing, and ending the day with ice cream. It felt normal, but it showed him who his people were.

continue

Thinking Routine -

Connect-Extend -Challenge

Identity & Belonging

Connect: What parts of Sean Sterling’s story remind you of your own experiences or someone you know? Extend: What new ideas about belonging did this story make you think about? Challenge: How do you think someone’s surroundings—like where they live, who they’re around, or what they experience—can shape who they are?

continue

Sterling’s music has reached global audiences—from WWE trailers to international festivals. Sean’s story shows how working together with others—can help build understanding, solve problems, and create something meaningful.. There is more to come...

continue

THANK YOU

N.E.S.T. 25 -26

To be continued...

start

Directions:

These are options for your N.E.S.T.

1. CONNECT: Students can choose one question and do a think-pair share. Then share out to the group if they choose. 2. EXTEND: This question can be placed on the board and those that are comfortable can share out to the class. 3. CHALLENGE: If chosen this can be kept priviate for students. Allow students to journal their ideas or thoughts.