This paper examines the role of the conative domain in the acquisition of sustainable school achievement. The focus of the conative domain is to embrace the learner with an all-encompassing determination to achieve. It is set in motion by a clear and self-directed sense of purpose in an environment of challenge and cognitive dissonance. Counselors and educational leaders need to understand the correlation between the will to do and school performance. When learning is nurtured by the support of caring, responsive professionals, the desire to achieve is heightened. Thus, the affective/cognitive connection is buttressed to a level where students becomes empowered to reach beyond themselves. The power of the affective/cognitive connection is unleashed when school counselors and other educational professionals factor in the role of conation in the formula for school success. Through understanding the role of the learner's will, desire, and determination to achieve in an academic setting, educators can more clearly understand the significance of using their skills as change agents to activate student success. When viewed as an integral part of a sound educational plan for developing competent and caring young people, students will emerge from our educational institutions with a healthy sense of self, their abilities, and the world around them. (Author/TE)