Thu, January 30, 2025

Creating Resilient Teachers Through Wellness with Amber Dembowski

In this episode, host Jethro Jones welcomes Amber Dembowski, creator of the Teacher Well app, to talk about teacher wellness. They discuss the importance of self-care for educators, the challenges teachers face, and how the Teacher Well app provides tools and resources to help teachers manage their wellbeing. Amber shares insights on mental fitness, recovery time, and how the app fosters support and resilience among school staff. Link to Amber’s episodes on Transformative Principal Bringing Humanity Back to Schools Four mistakes instructional leaders make Notes: Had everything, but things were still falling apart.  Workplace wellbeing - too expensive, geared for corporate.  Resilience from BigImpactMixer.com .  Resilience is being the little light that encourages you to take the next step.  3 main things that the app provides.  Athletes - Their job is to do a physical activity. What being a Division 1 Athlete really looks like Recovery is important too.  We all have different experiences and knowledge, because not one thing is going to work the same for everyone.  Apps, challenges, and resources to help teachers with mental fitness.  Within the group plan, principals can help prescribe The power of check in.  Teachers are exhausted, and they need help!  Dragging their bag to the car, and it totally makes sense.  “I can’t do one more thing!” Most of the content is audio so people can listen when they are doing something else.  Wellbeing has to come before school improvement.  We can do so much more than we think we can.  About Amber Dembowski Amber Dembowski is a dynamic leader in school improvement and educator wellness, and the driving force behind Dembowski Consulting EDU, EudoLeadership , and the TeacherWell app. With 27 years of experience in public education, Amber is passionate about reshaping schools into thriving communities through human-centered, innovative approaches. Her newsletter and downloadable app offers actionable insights and inspiration for educators looking to prioritize well-being and empowerment. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins Univers

Wed, December 04, 2024

Self-Awareness vs. Prescriptive Safety with Dr. Leslie Anway

In this episode, host Jethro Jones interviews Dr. Leslie Anway, the Director of Resilient Schools for the Pima County School Superintendent's Office. They discuss the nuances of creating safe learning environments, the importance of self-awareness and self-management in both students and staff, and the PRISM framework that Leslie developed to integrate proactive restorative practices in schools. Safety vs. self-awareness.  A prescription for safety. We never ask the question, “What makes you feel safe?” Self-awareness: presence, values and identity.  Focusing on polarizing things that make us different. Siloed efforts on SEL, PBIS, etc.  More info about PRISM Start with adults first - to generate buy-in and help them learn how to do it also. We can use it better with kids when we  Growth mindset - and other mindsets. It’s not a training, it’s a continual process.  When we beef up the self-awareness skills Stem, Limbic system and cortex Kids who are living in their brain stem - constant state of toxic stress Regulation spaces and activities How to support families with self-awareness Provide educational opportunities for families.  Social emotional skill building starts at home.  The importance of partnering with families.  About Dr. Leslie Anway Currently the Director of Resilient Schools for the Pima County School Superintendent’s Office, Dr. Leslie Anway’ s biggest focus over the last several years has been on assisting with the creation of educational systems that streamline and integrate proactive initiative work to create foundationally safe learning spaces that foster belonging and connection and prioritize educator wellness. Leslie is a national presenter who trains and consults with practitioners, schools, and districts around the state, but she remains an educator at heart with over 25 years of direct experience in the schools as both a teacher and a school psychologist. She is the co-founder of Flourish Learning Group, LLC and PRISM© and she participates on multiple state and national committees. Leslie adores being a lifelong learner who learns on a daily basis from the hardworking humans and kindred spirits she interacts with, as well as from her three spirited grandchildren.  We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the followin

Wed, October 02, 2024

Thriving vs. Resilience: Building Unshakeable Resilience In Schools with Allison Smith

In this episode, Jethro Jones interviews Alison Smith, an author, speaker, and coach dedicated to empowering leaders to build unshakeable resilience. Alison shares insights on how to foster deep-rooted confidence and create meaningful impact by aligning actions with core vision and values. The discussion dives into human-centered leadership, building trust, and defining success within schools. Alison also introduces her Thrive Design principles as a framework for building resilient schools. Thriving vs. Resilience Thrive: to grasp to oneself Thriving in the valleys.  Resilience is thriving in the valleys.  Centered or grounded.  You’re in a bubble, and things are happening around you, but you’re doing it from the grounded place.  Your well being is dependent on your bubble, not the circumstances around you.  Mission, vision, values help teachers, students, and families connecting to the vision.  Resilient schools are rooted in their purpose and values  Clarity of purpose and courage to go forward when we are aligned.  Burnout is a real barrier to resilience.  How stress and ineffectiveness contribute to burnout.  Feelings of “Things we do don’t matter” exist when our actions don’t align to our values.  It’s the work of all of us to define success’ We need to be concrete and explicit about what success looks like.  High Trust - Brene Brown Daring to Lead - The Anatomy of Trust Being Reliable.  Accountability Generosity THRIVE Design Principles - things that help us move from burnout to resilience.  Trust Human centered Responsive (as opposed to reactive, and be curious) Incremental - next right action.  Values driven Empowered - what you can control, not what you can’t control; let go of what you can’t control Go below the surface when there is friction to help you determine what issues are arising. Being clear takes away the judgment and distracting questions and justification.  How to make staff feel valued.  Look and watch and see what people are really doing, then give them appropriate praise . Part of resilience is awareness. Resilience comes back to self-awareness and community-awareness.  Well-being continuum -10 to +10 how are you doing right now?  School Leaders that THRIVE Summit About Allison: Alison Smith is an author, speaker, and coach dedicated to empowering leaders to build unshakeable resilience, foster deep-rooted confidence, and create meaningful impact by aligning their actions with their core vision and values. She helps her clients

Wed, September 18, 2024

Three Factors that Led to the Mississippi Miracle in Child Literacy with Dr. Trish Stoll #RIF

In this episode of the Resilient Schools podcast, we introduce you to Dr. Trish Stoll, a transformative leader who played a pivotal role in the Mississippi Miracle—a remarkable effort to improve child literacy rates in the state. Dr. Stoll will share her insights on how to empower teachers, build their capacity for literacy instruction, and create a culture of learning where all students can thrive. She'll discuss the importance of focusing on teacher capacity, providing ample training and support, and involving teachers in decision-making. Dr. Stoll will also share her thoughts on how principals can be transformative leaders by observing classrooms, learning from students, and creating a culture of continuous improvement. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in improving literacy outcomes for all students. Mississippi Miracle Prior initiatives Barksdale Reading Academy Reading Universe   Reading First - Literacy block was protected, pockets not the entire state Literacy-Based Promotion Act - 3rd grade assessment Mississippi Kindergarten Readiness Focus on Teacher Capacity on Literacy State literacy programs 3 Consortiums throughout the state to help teachers learn more AIM Pathways partnering with the state Lots of training and support for all teachers.  If we focus on learning to read from Pre-K to second Empowering Teachers State literacy coaches were teachers Teacher advisory committee - created by state supt.  Teachers take ownership of their professional learning TEDx talk for teachers How to be a transformative principal? Go in classrooms and observe what students are doing and be a learner. Even district personnel are learners too About Trish Stoll Dr. Trish Stoll is a dedicated and experienced educator who currently serves as the ELA Curriculum Specialist for the Gulfport School District in Gulfport, Mississippi. With over two decades of experience in the field of education, Dr. Stoll has held various roles including general education teacher, Visual Arts Instructor, Literacy Coach and Instructional Coach. Her passion for implementing best practices in literacy education has made her a valuable asset in improving literacy for students in Mississippi and beyond. Dr. Stoll's commitment to continuous learning, research, and collaboration with other literacy profession

Wed, September 04, 2024

Inclusive Literacy Strategies with Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan #RIF

Welcome to our  National Literacy Month series of podcasts , presented in partnership between the Be Podcast Network and Reading Is Fundamental (RIF). In this episode, Jethro welcomes Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan, host of the De Facto Leaders podcast. They discuss the role of related service providers in literacy, avoiding black-and-white thinking in educational interventions, and the multifaceted nature of vocabulary and comprehension in literacy development. Dr. Dudek-Brannan emphasizes the importance of structured service delivery planning and shares insights from her research on vocabulary, syntax, and their impacts on reading and writing comprehension. Getting everyone on the same page from different service providers.  We’re not ignoring your discipline!  Service delivery planning vs. lesson planning.  Having a lot of experiences is what kids need to build vocabulary Need to have about 90-95% of vocabulary  Phonics are essential, but if you don’t give them that explicit instruction, it becomes very difficult.  Biologically primary and biologically secondary - we are wired to speak Fluency is one way to measure automaticity.  Syntax Queen - metacognition and vocabulary.  Content and structure.  Sentence Structure About Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan is the founder and owner/operator of Dr. Karen, LLC, a company focused on empowering therapists and educators to design interventions that support language, literacy, and executive functioning. She has a doctorate in Special Education and Director of Special Education and Assistive Technology credentials from Illinois State University, as well as a master’s and bachelor’s from Illinois State University in speech-language pathology. She spent 14 years in the school systems and has held various roles in leadership and higher education teaching and mentoring clinicians. She is the host of the De Facto Leaders podcast, where she shares evidence-based practices, her own experiences, and guest interviews on topics relating to education and healthcare reform. She currently holds a management role with the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services.  We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time<

Thu, August 08, 2024

Nurturing Student Connections with Jessica Taylor

In this episode, Jethro Jones sits down with Jessica Taylor, the Trauma Informed Specialist at an alternative school in Nashville, Tennessee.  They discuss Jessica's role, her daily check-ins with students, the significance of building trust, and the impact of creating personal connections.  Jessica also shares her experiences at conferences and offers advice for those interested in trauma-informed practices. 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Jessica Taylor's Role and Responsibilities 00:59 Building Trust and Personal Connections 04:38 Importance of Trauma-Informed Practices 06:12 Validation and Co-Regulation 07:57 Advice for Practitioners 15:36 Closing Thoughts

Thu, August 01, 2024

The Role of ESSDACK in Resilience with Dr. Chad Higgins

In this episode, Jethro Jones talks with Dr. Chad Higgins, Executive Director of ESSDACK, during the Bridging to Resilience Conference.  They discuss the various initiatives of ESSDACK, particularly focusing on resilience and trauma-informed practices in education. They explore the importance of these initiatives, the challenges faced, and the potential for growth and impact in schools and communities. 00:00 Welcome to the Resilient Schools Podcast 00:18 ESSDACK Initiatives and Resources 01:31 Importance of Resilience Work 02:25 Growth Areas and Challenges 07:03 Future Insights and Hopes

Thu, July 25, 2024

Is AI making teacher burnout worse? with Priten Shah

In this episode, guest host Ross Romano speaks with education entrepreneur Priten Shah about teacher burnout, why it’s an important topic for resilient schools, and whether AI is currently making it better or worse.    Priten is the founder of Pedagogy.Cloud, an educational consulting firm that supports educators in K-12 schools, higher education, and the nonprofit sector adapt to the increasing capabilities of AI. He is also the author of AI & The Future of Education: Teaching in the Age of Artificial Intelligence (Jossey-Bass, 2023).    Hear about:   ●      Priten’s Ed Week op-ed: “I Was an AI Optimist. Now I’m Worried It’s Making Teacher Burnout Worse.” ●      Priten saw potential for AI tools to reduce teachers’ workload — here’s what he anticipated ●      What is the “So that…” of AI in schools? (In other words, AI saves teachers time on X so that they can do Y.) ●      What is the current reality of AI in schools? ●      What teachers need the most help with and how schools are currently supporting it ●      To allow time for AI training, what can be replaced?   About the host Ross Romano is a co-founder of the Be Podcast Network and CEO of September Strategies , a coaching and consulting firm that helps organizations and high-performing leaders in the K-12 education industry communicate their vision and make strategic decisions that lead to long-term success. Connect on Twitter @RossBRomano or LinkedIn   We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, July 18, 2024

Supporting Youth Through Job Corps with Ivory Boyce

In this episode of Resilient Schools, recorded at the Bridging to Resilience Conference, Jethro Jones speaks with Ivory Boyce from the Flint Hills Job Corps Center. Ivory shares her journey, education, and passion for helping students.  They discuss the range of services Job Corps offers to young adults, the importance of understanding individual backgrounds and needs, and insights gained from the conference. The conversation highlights the significance of proactive support and empathy in educational settings. 00:00 Introduction to Resilient Schools Podcast 00:14 Meet Ivory Boyce 00:52 Ivory's Educational Background 01:50 Job Corps Services and Support 03:09 Purpose of Attending the Conference 05:21 Conference Insights and Takeaways 07:19 Final Thoughts and Action Steps 10:32 Importance of Understanding Context 13:47 How to Get Involved with Job Corps We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, July 11, 2024

Fostering Hope and Courage with Sydney Perkins

In this episode, Jethro interviews Sydney Perkins, a kindergarten teacher. She shares her insights and experiences from attending the Bridging to Resilience Conference. She discusses the importance of social-emotional learning, personal well-being, and the significance of building strong relationships with students. Sydney emphasizes practical strategies like tapping, breathing exercises, and movement to support her young students' emotional and educational needs. 00:00 Introduction 00:24 Joining the Conference 00:52 Initial Understanding 01:18 Key Takeaways 01:54 Application in Classroom 02:58 Tapping Technique 04:25 Balancing Academics and Social Skills 05:23 Building Relationships 08:34 Insights on Discipline 09:11 Advice for Teachers 10:32 Actionable Steps Post-Conference 13:37 Closing Thoughts We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, July 04, 2024

How Adaptable Districts Can Reverse Chronic Absenteeism with Jen Perry

In this episode, guest host Ross Romano talks with Jen Perry, Senior Manager of Learning Design and Whole Learner at Edmentum. Jen helps us identify the types and indicators of trauma present in many school districts, the causes of chronic absenteeism as well as the ongoing trends, the risk factors for disengagement, how to integrate educator and student engagement, and more. 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Defining Resilient Schools 01:32 What 'Resilience' Means 03:44 Trauma and Adaptability 06:15 Indicators of Trauma 09:59 Attendance as an Indicator 23:49 Behavior and Connection 16:36 COVID-19 Impact on Attendance 25:01 Chronic Absenteeism 30:16 Creating Meaningful Engagement 35:16 Example from Rochester City School 39:22 Importance of Career-Connected Learning 41:58 AI and Education 46:16 The Whole Learner Framework Related Resources: Read Jen’s District Administration article, Connectedness is key: 3 ways to reverse chronic absenteeism Learn more about Edmentum: https://www.edmentum.com   About the guest Jen Perry is Senior Manager of Learning Design and Whole Learner at Edmentum. Jen has worked over 30+ years with youth in educational and community settings. As a teacher, administrator, and trainer, her passion has been to help educators develop an understanding of the importance of social-emotional learning and build trauma-informed responses and systems. This work has included supporting youth, administrators, and schools in understanding behavior and implementing transformational change through strength-based approaches. Connect on LinkedIn   About the host Ross Romano is co-founder of the Be Podcast Network and CEO of September Strategies , a coaching and consulting firm that helps organizations and high-performing leaders in the K-12 education industry communicate their vision and make strategic decisions that lead to long-term success. He has spent over a decade helping dozens of founders, C-level executives, and authors develop and distribute compelling thought leadership through a variety of media channels. Connect on Twitter @RossBRomano or LinkedIn We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do th

Thu, June 20, 2024

Cultivating Authenticity and Resilience in Schools with Tammy Fellers

In this episode of Resilient Schools, Jethro Jones speaks with Tammy Fellers at the Bridging to Resilience Conference. Tammy, a long-time team member of ESSDACK and a part of the Inspired Leadership team, discusses the essence of leadership coaching, balancing personal and professional lives, and the significance of conscious leadership. 00:00 Introduction 00:18 Tammy's Roles at ESSDACK 00:55 Coaching at the Conference 01:07 Difference Between Coaching and Therapy 03:47 The IPEC Certification 04:21 Understanding Energy Leadership 07:17 Conscious Leadership 11:07 Characteristics of a Conscious Leader 14:55 Authenticity in Leadership 17:41 Conclusion We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, June 13, 2024

Empathy in Teaching with Sarah Reade

In this episode of the Resilient Schools podcast, host Jethro Jones talks with Sarah Reade, a second-grade teacher attending the SDAC Bridging to Resilience Conference.  They discuss Sarah's journey into teaching, the importance of love and connection in the classroom, and how trauma-informed care is vital for student success.  Sarah shares personal insights about her approach to building relationships with her students and overcoming the emotional challenges faced in a trauma-aware educational environment. 00:00 Introduction 00:22 Meet Sarah Reade 00:54 Teaching Journey 01:59 Trauma-Informed Care and Conference Insights 05:29 Challenges in Building Relationships 07:49 Overcoming Emotional Barriers 13:30 The Power of Empathy We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, June 06, 2024

Navigating Trauma-Informed Teaching with Hillary Barragan

In this episode of the Resilient Schools podcast, recorded live at the ESSDACK Bridging to Resilience Conference, we interview Hillary Barragan, a para educator at a trauma-informed center helping teens and adults obtain their high school diplomas.  Hillary discusses her journey to this role, the challenges of working with students who have experienced trauma, and the importance of maintaining her own mental health.  She shares her aspirations for bringing trauma-informed education to the Philippines and highlights the power of human connection and resilience in education. 00:18 Meet Hillary Barragan: A Para Educator's Journey 00:34 Understanding the Trauma-Informed Center 02:40 Challenges and Rewards of Working in Trauma-Informed Education 04:13 Maintaining Mental Health and Building Resilience 05:31 Future Aspirations and Cultural Connections 07:28 Inspiring Resilience in Students 09:13 Conference Highlights We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, May 16, 2024

Balancing Support and Accountability with Jason Shelangouski

In this episode of the Resilient Schools Podcast, recorded live at the Bridging to Resilience conference in Wichita, Kansas, the Jethro interviews Jason Shelangouski, an experienced middle school teacher from Wamego Middle School, Kansas.  Jason shares insights into his 16-year teaching career, focusing on teaching 8th-grade language arts, creative writing, and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of co-regulation in helping students navigate the unique challenges of middle school, particularly in terms of emotional and behavioral development.  Jason discusses the role of teacher behaviors, such as being a calming presence or providing stern reminders, in effectively supporting student self-regulation.  He also highlights the significance of administrative support in fostering a positive environment for both teachers and students.  The conversation delves into the power of vulnerability and authenticity in building trust and understanding between teachers and students.  Jason and Jethro explore the concept of life as a game and the importance of adapting behaviors for success in different contexts.  Jason's approach to teaching underscores the necessity of personalized, empathic engagement with students to prepare them for future challenges while respecting their individual experiences and needs. 00:23 The Joy and Challenges of Teaching Middle School 01:20 Exploring Co-Regulation in Education 03:21 The Importance of Leadership and Support in Schools 06:12 Personal Approaches to Teaching and Leadership We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, May 09, 2024

Bridging to Resilience Conference Panel

This episode of the Resilient Schools podcast features a panel discussion from the Bridging to Resilience conference, focusing on the importance of trauma-informed leadership in educational settings.  Panelists share their personal definitions of being trauma-informed, emphasizing the significance of seeing individuals as humans first.  This conversation covers the necessity of empathy, vulnerability, and a focus on mitigating harm through safe policies and practices.  Key strategies discussed include advocating for change, understanding the science behind trauma, and creating a supportive school culture.  The panel also explores practical approaches for dealing with disciplinary issues in a trauma-informed manner, distinguishing between discipline and punishment, and the critical role of maintaining safety and fostering learning environments.  00:19 Defining Trauma-Informed Leadership 00:59 Panelist Introductions and Perspectives 02:55 The Importance of Being Trauma-Informed in Education 06:19 Practical Steps Towards Trauma-Informed Practices 08:16 Advocacy and Incremental Change in School Policies 10:52 Personal Reflections and Adjusting Approaches 14:46 Discipline vs. Punishment: A Critical Discussion 20:44 Implementing Restorative Practices and Building Relationships 26:47 Navigating Challenges with Toxic Stress in the Classroom 27:33 Empathy and Fairness: A Classroom Experiment 28:17 Addressing Fear and Regulation in the Classroom 29:01 Involving Parents in the Culture of Regulation 29:20 The Importance of Transparency and Communication 30:45 Strategies for Managing Classroom Disruptions 35:14 Building a Culture of Care: The Role of Emotional Regulation 36:50 Navigating Challenges: Public vs. Private Education 43:48 Understanding and Supporting Aggressive Students 47:10 Creating Safe and Nurturing Environments for All 54:31 Empowering Communities Through Inclusive Planning We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Wed, April 10, 2024

Empowering Connection with Stacy Nation

In this episode of the Resilient Schools podcast, recorded live at the Bridging to Resilience Conference 2023, keynote speaker Stacy Nation discusses the importance of cultivating genuine connections in a digitally dominated world.  Stacy, a licensed clinical social worker with a rich background including serving in the Wyoming Army National Guard, emphasizes the need to teach children and teenagers the value of in-person interactions over digital ones.  She shares effective strategies for managing technology use, such as encouraging kids to put away their phones during social gatherings, and fostering deeper conversations beyond superficial digital communication.  Stacy also touches on how educators can manage their own triggers and regulate their nervous system for better classroom management.  00:18 Meet Stacey Nation: A Glimpse into Her Life 01:04 Promoting Real Connections in a Digital World 02:04 Navigating the Challenges of Technology and Connection 04:56 Five Questions to Ask When You're Triggered 07:40 The Journey to Self-Awareness and Control 12:43 Connecting with Stacey Nation and Wrapping Up We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Wed, March 13, 2024

Resilience and Positivity in Adversity with Jackie Gilby

In this episode of the Resilient Schools Podcast, recorded live at the Bridging to Resilience Conference, we hear from Jackie Gilby, who shares her powerful story of overcoming adversity.  Jackie spent 17 years in foster care, experiencing adversity and being stuck in a cycle of poverty and street living. Despite these challenges, Jackie maintained a positive outlook on life, emphasizing the value of experiencing hardships to appreciate the good in life.  She eventually turned her life around, finding sobriety, securing stable housing, and becoming an active participant in her community's efforts to combat poverty. Working at a nonprofit, STEP MC, Jackie now helps others escape poverty by sharing her experiences and the lessons she learned along the way. The conversation touches on the transformative power of facing one's fears, the importance of community support, and the belief in a higher power guiding one's journey toward a better life. 00:10 Jackie's Journey: From Foster Care to Finding Her Path 00:57 The Power of a Positive Mindset Amidst Life's Challenges 02:15 Overcoming Adversity: Jackie's Transition to Sobriety and Stability 03:28 Empowering Others: Jackie's Work with STEP MC to End Poverty 09:42 Building a Better Future: Jackie's Goals and Aspirations 14:05 Reflections on Parenting, Recovery, and Finding Fulfillment 18:20 Jackie's Message of Hope and Courage to Those Struggling We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Wed, March 06, 2024

Unpacking Trauma and Restorative Practices in Education with Joshua Stamper

In this episode, Jethro Jones is joined by Joshua Stamper, the Director of Innovation for the Teach Better Team. This conversation focuses on restorative practices in schools, aiming to correct common misunderstandings.  Stamper, leveraging his experiences as a former administrator and coach, emphasizes that restorative practices are not about leniency or avoiding consequences but rather about teaching behavior and establishing supportive environments for trauma-impacted students.  He shares insights into implementing restorative practices effectively, such as the importance of building relationships, understanding the language of behavior, and addressing incidents with care and consideration for individual circumstances.  Stamper also discusses proactive strategies like relationship plans and check-ins to support students better. The conversation highlights that while restorative practices require time and effort, they can lead to more meaningful changes in behavior compared to traditional punitive methods. 02:00 Understanding Restorative Practices in Education 02:23 Dispelling Misconceptions about Restorative Practices 05:15 Real-life Example of Restorative Practices 10:02 The Importance of Building Relationships 23:01 Addressing the Time Factor in Restorative Practices 25:56 Understanding the Language of Behavior We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Wed, February 07, 2024

Bridging to Resilience Series: Tyler Swalley

Sat, January 20, 2024

Bridging to Resilience Series: Katie Kinder Resilient Schools 44

Thu, January 18, 2024

Bridging to Resilience Series: Andi Amann Resilient Schools 43

This file is to help us prep for the podcast. If you have something you would like to share in addition to what you filled out on the form:  additional_notes Please add your bio here:  Please add questions that we would ask here, and you can add anything that you would like to add as well.  This is certainly not an exhaustive list, nor will we ask everything that is on here, but will help guide the conversation.  Our podcast interview is scheduled for: November 8, 2023 in the America/Chicago time zone. And the link for our meeting is: https://sqdc.st/studio/P94W *** PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM SO I CAN SEND YOU A THANK YOU CARD *** https://goo.gl/forms/ntIGRH7zm6B10Nyw1 We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Sat, December 23, 2023

RS 42 Bridging to Resilience Series: Alayna

Thu, December 21, 2023

Bridging to Resilience Series: Austin

Tue, December 19, 2023

Bridging to Resilience Series: Katelyn Resilient Schools 40

Mon, November 20, 2023

Bridging to Resilience Series: Rob Resilient Schools 39

Fri, November 10, 2023

Helping Kids Develop Executive Functioning with Alexis Reid Resilient Schools 38

Book - Wounded By Schools - great read. Executive function skills - stories are related to other adults in their lives - a lot of invalidation around their experience of not being able to access what’s going on in schools.  Story of what a student’s experience is.  Kids who feel disconnected or not learning.  Kids who feel like school is not for them.  School wounds go back to different stages and levels of our lives.  Schools should feel safe for kids.  School is not designed for kids.  Purpose of school design: How do we help kids do the things that society wants them to do? We can’t aim for the middle Executive Function - behaviors related to the cognitive skills related to help us get things done, especially efficiently.  Executive function: Inhibition (pause and assess before reacting); working memory (take information, and do something with it); cognitive flexibility (shift sets, being flexible and adaptable) - not just about learning, but about living. Then there are behaviors related to those things Prioritize time (because we can’t manage time). Invalidation - Often get mislabeled as behavioral skills or as “dumb” because they can’t do certain things in schools at the right time.  What Schools think Learning Looks like vs. what is actually looks like Montessori Education Setting up parameters to allow for flexibility - firm goals, we can allow flexibility for how to get there.  Learners have greater insight than I could ever imagine Structure with flexibility  More time to give pause Is school really about task completion or about learning?  Two things: set up a structure with flexibility and allow for student's voice.  A sidenote about AI - highlight this episode with Viktor Karkar Practicing through games. Here’s a fun game - Pedunkle. Students have a hard time admitting when they can’t do something and they don’t know how to ask for help.  Relationships Todd Rose - Square Peg Book What are the systems we set up in schools devaluing? When we don’t set up for flexibility, we see kids shrink away.  Never met a student who doesn’t want to do well.  Connect with Alexis on Instagram or X or listen to her podcast here . About Alexis Reid Alexis Reid is an

Thu, November 02, 2023

Importance of Relationships in Healing Trauma with Eric Nachtigal Resilient Schools 37

Kids will work for people that they like. Brain research - brain structure is changed when it goes through toxic trauma or traumatic events Positive experiences and positive relationships rewire the brain.  Favorite R word is relationships Relationships leads to resilience We want kids to be successful people in the world. Building resilience relationship - authentic, genuine, accountability Building such a strong relationship with him that you can build strong relationships. Filling your bucket and  Unconditional positive regard -  If you make a mistake and you let them down, you apologize Relationships do not build resilience by doing the big things People have these big brick walls.  We have a hard time trusting We need to take out one brick at a time.  Safety, belonging, and dignity Relationships are complex Endure through the difficult part of the complex.  In Public education, we have to approach things differently.  Know your setting Avoid oversharing by making it about them, not bringing the attention to you.  Appropriately vulnerable - Lean towards vulnerability to build trust and the relationship.  Mad, sad, glad, and afraid. Leaving space for people having control over their life.  It’s ok to make mistakes.  About Eric Nachtigal Eric is a Trauma-informed Behavior Intervention Specialist who has extensive experience addressing students’ social emotional and behavioral needs while promoting healthy emotional and academic development. He has been in the field of education for almost three decades and is celebrated as being team-oriented, and an excellent communicator with parents, students, and colleagues. Eric always strives to do what is best for students and educators. Eric has an array of skills & tools that he has honed along his journey from time spent as a classroom teacher, a school counselor, administrator, to Behavioral Social Emotional Student Support Specialist for the past half-decade. This broad scope of experience has provided him with an abundant toolbox to support staff in building resilience with students while implementing trauma-informed individual behavior plans. He is able to support educators as they begin to do the work that increases student engagement, reduces disruptive behaviors, and addresses student crisis interventions. As a result, both students and staff will begin to experience a positive culture and true team building. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by inde

Wed, October 18, 2023

Bridging to Resilience with Katie Perez Resilient Schools 36

Problems of Practice  Structure where people are able to get multiple feedback sessions.  The smartest person in the room is the room.  Thinking about the individual student we serve and how it’s working for that specific student.  The problem we are having within the confines of that practice we are trying to implement. Put your problem in the pot Break into small groups, then the “hot seat” gets feedback on the problem.  Questioning - clarifying questions to  The asker sits back and listens Brainstorm ideas and possible solutions Asker then makes an action plan.  Anybody who is at bridging able to submit things they want to  Curate a network at Bridging to Resilience Looking at bridging for opportunities to create this relationship Returning attendees bring new people into the fold.  Putting up the umbrella during a brainstorm session. Purpose is not to defend or make decisions.  Used to looking to outside resources for our ideas.  Validate that this room here has knowledge and ability to make things happen.  Yes And game and 10% true.  Remove the word but If you did know, what would you say?  The need for unlearning for adults in schools.  Role of consultant vs. someone in the school.  Equipping resilience coaches.  Joyce and Showers - professional learning The power of supporting others through repeated interactions after development.  About Katie Perez Katie Perez does a lot at ESSDACK, Project-Based Learning, Trauma/Resilience, School Redesign, Four Disciplines of Execution, Elementary Generalist, Keynoter, Facilitator, Coach, and Mentor. A large part of Katie’s work at ESSDACK focuses on supporting educators as they become trauma-informed. Katie has been researching and speaking about the science of hope since 2007. She says, “Hope guides me in all endeavors. In both my professional and personal life, I see opportunities to share and spread hope with others so that they too may develop pathways to see great possibilities in their lives. I believe in the power of engaged educators to build significant relationships with young people to encourage, inspire, and build great lives.” This work has led to a partnership with Jim Sporleder to build a curriculum guide to support school faculties in their journey to becoming trauma-informed.  Katie’s true passion in education is in helping teachers reignite their own passion for teaching and learning. As a facilitator and coach, Katie customizes professional learning to target the specific goals and needs of each educator or audience. She believes that the key to unlocking the full potential in our education system relies on the hope, well-being, and

Mon, October 09, 2023

Bridging to Resilience Conference with Ginger Lewman Resilient Schools 35

Self-care is a lie! 85% of every group said they didn’t make a doctor’s appointment that they knew they should make.  We are hard-wired to put others first Regularity and intentionality How do we systemically make sure everyone is taken care of We’ve been brought up to serve one another.  If we care about each other, we will take care of each other.  The science of is resilience: it’s the ability to bounce back.  In the presence of another safe-supporting adult.  We become that way because there is a safe supporting adult there saying you can make it.  Resilience is the ability to adapt and overcome challenges with a supportive adult.  Self-soothe vs co-care Sedation is ignoring our challenges - numbing strategies or not feeling a feeling.  Feelings can hurt, and we often do things to avoid it.  River of cruelty.  How we can help people who are avoiding feeling their feelings?  Quick Check-in: Mad sad, glad, or afraid?  Normalize having emotions.  It’s oK that you have feelings.  Body Doubling - needing to have someone there.  Judgment and blame come from within someone else.  What does it mean to be a safe supporting adult?  We bring together the believers. This is not just a school, healthcare, or education problem.  Nothing about us without us!  We bring parents, educators, healthcare and so many more together.  Kids are invited away from our systems.  About Ginger Lewman Ginger is a national consultant & keynote speaker with ESSDACK, a non-profit education service center based in Hutchinson Kansas. She inspires and helps all levels of educators figure out the ins and outs of teaching and learning. Some of her specialty topics include redesigning schools & learning environments. Please add questions that we would ask here, and you can add anything that you would like to add as well.  This is certainly not an exhaustive list, nor will we ask everything that is on here, but will help guide the conversation.  Our podcast interview is scheduled for 01:45 pm - Monday, September 11, 2023, in the America/Chicago time zone. And the link for our meeting is: https://sqdc.st/studio/PHtG   *** PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM SO I CAN SEND YOU A THANK YOU CARD *** https://goo.gl/forms/ntIGRH7zm6B10Nyw1   We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the

Mon, October 02, 2023

Community Building Circles! with Carmen Zeisler Resilient Schools 34

Three types of circles: Community Circles, Academic Circles, and Restorative Circles Conflict is a natural part of life, as adults and as kids, we just avoid it.  We’re not going to talk about it or you’re suspended.  Talking about repairing harm Belonging to Safety and Dignity. The people in the circle are there to support them.  Consistently doing community circle work.  Doing circle work just for discipline makes it really hard.  Example about girl drama and 4th-grade drama.  Circles part of everyday activities made it possible to prevent further issues.  Students have a place to bring up issues.  Why take the time for circles?  As an educator, I’m going to spend my time somewhere We think kids know how to solve problems, but they don’t always and they need teaching.  Social Media is an example of how to not solve an issue.  Time and space to learn conflict resolution Structure of a circle meeting.  Get your flow of a circle meeting and stay with your flow.  Opening activity (Mindfulness, poem, quote, song) Values round (reviewing our values or bringing certain values to the circle) Round 1: check-in: Are you mad, sad, glad, afraid?  Round 2: What is your focus? Academic, Community, Restorative? Closing: A way to bring everyone together and clarify where they’re at. Expression of gratitude.  Children’s literature with circles (reading a children’s book) Mindfulness moment to close out our time.  Are we ready to make a decision?  Never require someone to be a part of a circle.  Students who are long-term suspended or expelled, need to be a transition process in place for them. Reentry circle to make the transition more effective.  People are not one-dimensional.  Bridging to Resilience Conference - Register Here . November 6-8 2023 in Wichita, KS 7 sessions each time there is a breakout.  About Carmen Zeisler Carmen Zeisler is the Director of the ESSDACK Learning Centers, an Educational Consultant/Coach, and a co-founding member of the ESSDACK Resilience Team. In Learning Centers, she has been instrumental in leading a Redesign process through Project-Based Learning. In schools, Carmen loves collaborating with teachers on Trauma-Informed practices and she leads The Restorative Justice in Schools effort on the ESSDACK Resilience Team. Her other passion as a Consultant and Coach is supporting teachers to build a strong reading culture in their classroom. One of her favorite ways to do this is to use picture books with science and social studies to make these content areas come alive for students! Carmen has traveled the world as a teacher. She spent ten years in Mexico at the American Institute of Monter

Tue, September 26, 2023

Bridging to Resilience with Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz Resilient Schools 33

Best practice - People who are experiencing the issue are part of the conversation. We think the root cause of a problem is  People should be invited to the table not just as contributors but also as solution providers.  What barriers are people bumping up against?  FQHC - Federally Qualified Health Clinic.  Teacher retention, how about we asked  Bridging to Resilience is one of the most meaningful activities we can be involved in.  Trauma doesn’t live in a certain neighborhood.  Poverty is something that a group of people experience in a group.  Poverty does mean toxic stress Inviting parents in poverty to be part of the stage and panels Parent panels leave a lasting impact.  Learning centers that help kids who are not successful in typical schools.  What it’s like to be in a resilience-based school.  People of resilience - human library.  How do you make it so people don’t judge others.  People’s stories and authenticity cause and judgment just drops.  Shame or guilt because participants didn’t know.  We just want to be seen, hear, and valued.  Real stories from real moms and dads and students.  Isolating being in poverty or dealing with children that are atypical.  Judgment is really fear Made strides in talking about race in our country, but we don’t like to talk much about class.  We don’t realize how truly segregated we are by class.  People don’t understand that the way they were raised is cultural.  Things that make you uncomfortable  Ruby Payne Framework for Understanding Generational Poverty In my culture that makes sense, in other cultures that looks asinine.  Poverty conditions you.  It comes from a place of love, but often a place of misunderstanding.  Get to know your parents on a human level.  Bridging to Resilience isn’t just another conference. It’s a revival! Register here - Come and get some love.  About Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz works with both communities and schools across the US to truly solve poverty and heal trauma. She does this by helping brilliant and caring leaders create sustainable ecosystems of resilience through building better relationships. Check out her previous interview on Resilient Schools here .  Rebecca fought her way out of poverty and the trailer park in 2011 with three young sons. A local poverty resolution project found Rebecca and activated her journey. She later went to work for that non-profit and then went on to build multiple projects like it to help more families. In 2015 She started working with public education

Mon, September 18, 2023

Building Resilient Students with JC Pohl Resilient Schools 32

JC Pohl is the co-founder and CEO of TeenTruth.net Resilience is about taking the hits and moving forward. Hear about bad things with kids. Bouncing back. It was really in the hard times in our life that we grew. 5 keys to mental health. Why is it harder for teenagers? This is developmentally appropriate. To them it really does feel like it is the end of the world. Charismatic Adults - A developmental structure to support them. They need a touchpoint when they need it. All adults around out children have the ability to speak into their lives. Dr. Robert Brooks - charismatic adult is the single most important influence. Anybody can do this. Some people aren’t invited. Connect with students where they are. Kids form common bonds. Get free chapters: teentruth.net/resilientstudents Discount code relationships to get a discount on the book. How to be a transformative principal? Be vulnerable about a challenge you’re dealing with. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Sun, September 10, 2023

Stop Making Excuses with JeVon McCormick Resilient Schools 31

JT McCormick is the Co-Founder of Book in a Box. Email him JT’s interview on the 1 Thing podcast Scaled software company, now a president and CEO of a publishing company, BookinaBox.com No motivational story of someone who stood by him. Pushed through a bad educational system that did not meet his needs. What I quickly learned…There is no geometry on a deposit slip. Mindset, choices, and hard work = success for me. Get up at 4 am. If there’s anything I don’t like in life, it’s up to me to change it. Where did these ideas come from? What would you tell a 10 year old JT? It’s not always what you tell a kid, but more what you show them. 3 of the greatest moments - marriage, birth of children, mentor at-risk youth. First time they got to see an office building. Connecting with kids - What’s wrong with this picture? And this? Shake hands with a firm handshake - when do we teach them this? Manners, a firm handshake, and other small things have served me very well in life. How is there not a life essentials class? Every school a subscription the Forbes 400. 3 avenues out of poverty: 1. Athlete 2. Rapper 3. Drug Dealer Nobody told me the fourth option: entrepreneur. If you are going to think, dream, or set goals Money does not bring happiness. Many children just don’t understand the ways of the world. If you lost it all, what would you do? Put in the time, put in the hard work now. Have your own personal excellence every single day. Show them examples of people who have accomplished great things. Show little girls female executives. Bring the examples in to the schools. I have built a career off of asking questions. There are no dumb questions! No means not right now. How to be a transformative principal? Show kids. Routine is what breeds success I Got There - Book You can’t change the past, but you can change the future We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards

Sun, September 03, 2023

For the Sake of Our Youth with Tessa Stuckey Resilient Schools 30

Tessa works with teenagers and has decided to take on parenting from a new perspective.   While patiently waiting for her book’s completion "For the Sake of Our Youth: A Therapist's Perspective on Raising Kids in Today's Culture" (due to hit the shelves in Spring 2020) Tessa coaches and presents to parents her research on today’s teen depression, anxiety and suicide rate focusing on parent/child connection. You can connect with her at her website Tessastuckey.com or follow her on Instagram @themomtherapist. Why she wanted to work with teens and parents. Kids came to me with suicidal thoughts. It scared me that they were going to grow up in a world where suicide was so common. 6 cultural influences that are happening in today’s world. Social Trend - People see it and so they think it. Not being balanced with appropriate preventative care. Immediate gratification - everything is just a click away. Teaching our kids how to struggle. There is no instant fix for an emotional hardship. You have to think a little unnaturally to slow things down a little bit. Lack of personal connections is being made. Social media is meant for connection but it doesn’t create the same closeness and bond. Attention seeking - longing to feel important. It has become an acceptable way to get attention in our society. Reacting to a lack of attention and lack of resilience. Social media - 5 categories: don’t need to connect face to face, comparison, kids can’t turn their social life, cyberbullying (hurt people hurt people), phone addiction. Pressure - We live a go-go-go lifestyle. No mercy and no grace. Everyone is striving to be perfect. Be the supporter and helper for your child and not the fixer for all their problems. How to be a transformative principal? Understand your own philosophies on the kids you interact with. What are the core values you want kids to have when they leave your school? This is not just mental illness anymore. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, August 24, 2023

Helping Kids Have A Web Of Support with Amy McDonald Resilient Schools 29

Amy McDonald helps kids have a strong web of support Working with kids vs doing work for kids. Developmental ecology of a youth Strengths-based Lots of training for teachers and youth. Prince Wales Island in Alaska Eat sleep and work in gyms. 70 kids and 20 adults. 3 day lock in events  Brightways Learning runs Phlight Club . Descriptions of the ROYGBIV story from the link above. Red – The Rule of Five: The foundation for a personal village for each youth by five caring adults (or more,) having high expectations and providing opportunities, teaching skills, and celebrating relative best in appropriate ways. Orange – Tangible Strings: Measurable supports are provided through the anchors that shape the home, school, and community environment of each youth. Yellow – Intangible Strings: Important, yet difficult to measure, beliefs, values, and behaviors that are being taught to and caught by the youth. Green – Resiliency/Growing the Balloon: These DNA based characteristics and talents increase the likelihood that the youth will remain connected to any web that they are given. How are you smart rather than how smart are you? Grit optimism, how am I smart, gender, wonder gene. Blue – Scissor Cuts/Problem Reduction: Decreasing or eliminating the conditions, actions, and attitudes that erode the supports being created by the adult anchors. Indigo – Caring for the Carers: Supporting those who anchor the web so they do not drop out of their lives even when circumstances in their own lives change. Violet – Social Norms: The climate and culture of the social environment (home, school, and/or community) that have been accepted or agreed upon by a critical number of adults. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Wed, August 16, 2023

Teaching Regulation To Students with Teri Barila Resilient Schools 28

During the interview with Teri Barila, the Children’s Resilience Initiative Director, several key points were discussed. Teri emphasized the importance of safety, connection, and learning in supporting trauma-impacted youth. She highlighted that regulation is crucial before any learning can take place, as the body’s response to stress shuts down other functions. Teri stressed the need for adults to understand the impact of toxic stress on brain development and to approach behavior from a different lens, focusing on what the individual has experienced rather than what is wrong with them. Teaching regulation to students was also discussed, with Teri emphasizing the importance of teaching self-regulation skills from an early age and providing opportunities for students to calm down. She emphasized the need for adults to be present with the child, noticing, naming, validating, and managing their feelings. Teri also highlighted the significance of attachment to a caring adult as the number one strategy for resilience. The interview touched on the role of schools in creating a caring and supportive environment for students. Teri emphasized that any perception of loss of safety can lead to students becoming disregulated, and that trauma is not just about adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), but also about the perception of loss of safety and connection. She stressed the importance of moral and emotional safety in addition to physical safety. Teri also addressed concerns about the time and resources required to support trauma-impacted youth. She emphasized that creating a calm room is not punishment and that schools cannot do this alone. She encouraged a shift from a punishment mode to a regulatory mode in teaching and supporting students. Overall, Teri Barila’s interview highlighted the importance of understanding the hardwired response system in the brain and the need for adults to support trauma-impacted youth through nurturing and regulation. She emphasized the role of attachment to a caring adult, the importance of creating a safe environment, and the reparative and restorative nature of nurturance. Toxic Stress impacts our brain development and architecture Brain developed to protect that individual. When you feel threatened, you go to that brain stem. How we look at behavior from a different lens. It’s not what’s wrong with this person What has this person experienced that I can manage to support him or her? Regulatory skills are needed for kids. Body already understands that you are being threatened. Body shuts down all other functions to be supportive. Use the same response systems as a child. Understanding our brain architecture. Language centers are disconnected when they are under stress. Provide opportunities to calm down. You ain’t getting to learning until that student is regulated. We furth

Wed, August 09, 2023

Resilience Factors with Barbara Sorrells Resilient Schools 27

In this episode of the Resilient Schools podcast, host Jethro Jones interviews Dr. Barbara Sorrels , the Executive Director of The Institute for Childhood Education. Dr. Sorrels shares her insights on managing behavior and healing children from the inside out. Dr. Sorrels’ journey began when she started rocking abandoned babies in high school. Her first year of teaching was in the inner city, where she discovered the importance of spirituality and faith in children. She emphasizes that the faith community can be a resilience factor and enable connection. Dr. Sorrels believes that children have an innate understanding of God and that their behavior is often a reflection of their experiences. Instead of asking what is wrong with a child, she encourages educators to ask what has happened to them. Trauma can impact children at a cellular level, and it is important to approach it with compassion and understanding. Understanding the impact of trauma is crucial. Dr. Sorrels explains that trauma can affect the organization of the brain, particularly during the prenatal stage and the first two months of life. She discusses the role of neurotransmitters and how ADHD medication manipulates them. Trauma can also interrupt the connection between the two hemispheres of the brain, affecting memory, language, and the use of symbols. Dr. Sorrels emphasizes the importance of creating moral classrooms and communities for children with trauma. These children often act at half their chronological age and require developmentally appropriate practices. Active learning engagement and the use of strategies like do-overs and giving choices can help heal children from the inside out. Practical strategies for managing behavior include creating a cozy corner where children can calm down and offering a wet washcloth as a tangible symbol of empathy. Dr. Sorrels reminds educators to see struggling children not as problems, but as individuals who have experienced something difficult. By understanding their stories and offering support, educators can truly make a transformative impact. Overall, this episode provides valuable insights into managing behavior and healing children from the inside out. Dr. Sorrels’ expertise and compassionate approach offer practical strategies for educators to create a supportive and healing environment for all children. Barbara started rocking abandoned babies when she was in high school in Washington, D.C. First year teaching was in the inner city. The role of spirituality and faith in children. Faith community is a resilience factor. Faith enables us to have connections. Children have an innate understanding of God. When you have that child standing in front of you that can sometimes get on your last nerve, ask not what is wrong with you, but what has happened to you. Impacts us at the cellula

Wed, August 02, 2023

Behavior as a Lagging Skill with Matthew Portell Resilient Schools 26

Matthew is a principal in Nashville, He was recently selected by FranklinCovey Education as a Leader in Me Community Champion in recognition of his outstanding work Trauma Informed Educators Network Facebook group “I’m an activator,” he says. “In education, everyone is waiting for someone else to do something different, but if something is inequitable, I’m not going to wait―I’m going to disrupt.” Impact of social justice and trauma informed practices Trauma as a whole, but not as an event. Intergenerational transmission of trauma. Impact of racial trauma over time and day to day. ACES and Trauma. Understanding implicit bias If we’re not cognizant of it, it can wreak havoc on our impact as an educator. How do we navigate our roles as educator’s knowing that we possess bias? Why do we have clip charts in elementary schools? Unapologetic disruptor Our schools are designed to reflect the majority of our culture Behavior is a lagging skill instead of a personal choice. Change the school to meet the needs of our kids. When we put norms on kids. Look at kids as though they are doing the best they can! Many people have experienced trauma. Focused on the strengths of what kids come with. We’ve learned that clip charts in the classroom When public shaming becomes a norm in the school it can have major damage. Every kid is a genius. You’re being sent home because… How to have the conversation with adults. Teachers just like kids are doing the best they could. De-escalating kids. An escalated adult cannot deescalate an escalated child. Tap in and tap out strategy. Happy teacher revolution. You’re done. I can’t handle that weight. It’s too much. How to be a transformative principal? Activator - don’t wait for someone else to do it or try it. If it doesn’t work, it’s ok. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or d

Wed, July 26, 2023

How To Combine SEL And Virtual Learning with Tamara Fyke Resilient Schools 25

Tamara Fyke is the founder of Love in a Big World , which provides SEL support for families all over the world. SEL is related to their emotional, mental, and physical health. Kids may have experienced more trauma at home during closures than they ever have. Maslow before Bloom's. The need that kids have is to connect. The pace of learning is different at home. We have to acknowledge what is most important. The system we’ve been using isn’t actually working. The learning council it’s time to let go of control Being a compass instead of a sage Self-awareness is knowing our strengths and weaknesses. What’s it like to have a deliverable that’s due at a certain time? How to be a transformative principal? Take a cue from youth culture - Tiktok, Instagram, YouTube, twitch, etc. What do we need to change to show that kids aren’t really lazy? We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, July 20, 2023

Strategies To Deal With The Coronavirus Trauma with Karen Gross Resilient Schools 24

Karen Gross is an author and educator, as well as an advisor and consultant to nonprofit schools, organizations, and governments; instructor of continuing education at Rutgers Graduate School of Social Work; visiting professor at Bennington College; former president of Southern Vermont College; former senior policy advisor to the United States Department of Education; and author of the sidequel, Breakaway Learners: Strategies for Post-Secondary Success with At-Risk Students and the trauma-sensitive children’s book series, Lady Lucy’s Quest. Visit Karen’s website at www.karengrosseducation.com. Name it - start by recognizing that it exists. What is traumatic for one may not be traumatic for another. Tame it - Strategies to deal with those. Invisible and it never goes away. Fight, flight, freeze, faint, fawn. activities that activate the senses allow the brain to reset. Example of strategies - stand on one leg. All of the senses have activities that are tied to them. Frame it Gotta do something to activate the brain. Triphasic - dysregulated, isolated, over-regulated. long-term strategies. Instead of blaming, seek to find what caused the behavior? Processing in place. Kimochis - https://www.kimochis.com Fidget boxes Play table. how to be a transformative principal? Assuming schools haven’t reopened - reach out to everyone and provide support. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, July 20, 2023

Addressing Mental Health and Learning Globally with Evin Schwartz Resilient Schools 23

Evin is the CEO and Founder of Belouga, a social learning platform making education impactful, accessible and equitable for the youth of the world through interactive digital content, aimed at providing a global perspective while aligning to everyday school subject areas and student interests. He has 17+ years of overseeing businesses focused on education, social impact and innovation within the Gen-Y and Gen-Z demographic. Evin has created and implemented educational programs and cross-cultural initiatives in all 50 states in the US at the K–12 and university levels, along with consultancy work on six continents. In 2019, he was recognized as one of the Meaningful Business 100, an award honoring global leaders who are introducing new ways of thinking and acting to address the world’s biggest challenges: climate change, pollution, hunger, poverty, education, and health. In this episode, we discuss #Samehere Schools Month and other things about taking care of ourselves.  Samehere Schools What comes next? SEL has been a nice term, but mental health has been around forever. How we keep mental health from being a flavor of the week Looking at standards, nobody knows how to assess this. It’s not the teacher’s or principal’s assignment, it’s society’s. None of that stuff matters without mental health. The power of connection The programming side of this - how do we personalize this in communities Everybody’s experiencing completely different Schools are over-resourced right now. How are they aware of these programs? Making programs more accessible to others. Belouga is a global organization that believes that people should learn about the world with the world! Creating learning communities Mentorship and connections - how to get that out to the masses. Global networks and able to travel the world. Our kids are consuming at a rapid pace. social learning - how do you make it global and how do you make it It’s ok to disagree! Innovation within education (i.e. what does the future hold for the industry) The importance of mental health and wellness within the industry Creating a thriving learning ecosystem through passion/interest-driven learning We’re not doing any justice by thinking that learning happens within the four walls of a classroom. Bring fun and excitement back to learning. Equality, Impact, Access belouga.org - Learn about the world with the world, aligned to standards - 100% free to register. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research fro

Thu, July 06, 2023

Addressing Mental Health and Learning Globally with Evin Schwartz Resilient Schools 22

Evin is the CEO and Founder of Belouga, a social learning platform making education impactful, accessible and equitable for the youth of the world through interactive digital content, aimed at providing a global perspective while aligning to everyday school subject areas and student interests. He has 17+ years of overseeing businesses focused on education, social impact and innovation within the Gen-Y and Gen-Z demographic. Evin has created and implemented educational programs and cross-cultural initiatives in all 50 states in the US at the K–12 and university levels, along with consultancy work on six continents. In 2019, he was recognized as one of the Meaningful Business 100, an award honoring global leaders who are introducing new ways of thinking and acting to address the world’s biggest challenges: climate change, pollution, hunger, poverty, education, and health. In this episode we discuss the #Samehere Schools Month and other things about taking care of ourselves.  Samehere Schools What comes next? SEL has been a nice term, but mental health has been around forever. How we keep mental health from being a flavor of the week Looking at standards, nobody knows how to assess this. It’s not teacher’s or principal’s assignment, it’s society’s. None of that stuff matters without mental health. The power of connection Programming side of this - how do we personalize this in communities Everybody’s experiencing completely different Schools are over-resourced right now. How are they aware of these programs? Making programs more accessible to others. Belouga is a global organization that believes that people should learn about the world with the world! Creating learning communities Mentorship and connections - how to get that out to the masses. Global networks and able to travel the world. Our kids are consuming at a rapid pace. social learning - how do you make it global and how do you make it It’s ok to disagree! Innovation within education (i.e. what does the future hold for the industry) The importance of mental health and wellness within the industry Creating a thriving learning ecosystem through passion/interest driven learning We’re not doing any justice by thinking that learning happens within the four walls of a classroom. Bring fun and excitement back to learning. Equality, Impact, Access belouga.org - Learn about the world with the world, aligned to standards - 100% free to register. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from

Thu, July 06, 2023

Building NeuroResilience with Katie Perez Resilient Schools 22

Today we talk with Katie Perez and how to help people be regulated through connection, stress vs. toxic stress vs. trauma. - We don’t have the language to talk to kids about what is going in their brains when they are dysregulated. - It’s normal to act this way when you are stressed, and this is how you build resilience - Name to tame - name an emotion to tame an emotion. - Kids don’t always have the words to express what they’re experiencing. - Mad, sad, glad, or afraid as the keywords. - Coregulation is the idea that self-regulation is baloney. You calm down through connection. - Connecting with other regulated people. - Can’t have two amygdalas talking to each other. - The nervous system can regulate itself if it has strategies. - When we’re in connection with another regulated person, we try to regulate with theirs. - Repeated Rhythmic Activity as helps to regulate someone. - Start having conversations to get us back into - Emotions are signs: they’re just signs that something is off. - What our emotions mean. - Mad really means my sad and afraid got in control. - We can only choose our responses when we are afraid - We all go through challenges. We compare our curses, and we live in the curse rather than the blessing - What is the difference between stress and trauma. - Everyone experiences things differently. - How do we reframe those things that we say to kids about their lives - Transforming discipline - Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz's episode on Discipline vs. Punishment - It’s not about you. - Social discipline window - Building NeuroResilience Training - Students even take this through an independent study course. - Stopitsolutions app help me - Reach out to her at essdack.org and on Facebook -  About Katie Perez Katie Perez does a lot at ESSDACK, Project-Based Learning, Trauma/Resilience, School Redesign, Four Disciplines of Execution, Elementary Generalist, Keynoter, Facilitator, Coach, and Mentor. A large part of Katie’s work at ESSDACK focuses on supporting educators as they become trauma-informed. Katie has been researching and speaking about the science of hope since 2007. She says, “Hope guides me in all endeavors. In both my professional and personal life, I see opportunities to share and spread hope with others so that they too may develop pathways to see great possibilities in their lives. I believe in the power of engaged educators to build significant relationships with young people to encourage, inspire, and build great lives.” This work has led to a partnership with Jim Sporleder to build a curriculum guide to support school faculties in their journey to becoming trauma-informed.  Katie’s true passion in education

Thu, June 29, 2023

Awesome People in Progress with Emily Torres Resilient Schools 21

In this podcast episode, Emily Torres , an educator with Spokane Public Schools for 21 years, discusses her experience piloting a program for trauma-impacted teens. The program uses a counselor-in-the-classroom approach with a curriculum designed around self-awareness. Torres worked alongside psychologists to develop and implement the curriculum, which includes daily practices and a weekly therapist visit. The program also incorporates the Circle of Security approach to help students deal with challenging situations. Torres emphasizes the importance of having a willing teacher and a partnership to implement such a program successfully. Torres’ goal is to help students develop skills that they can use with their own families later in life. Torres believes that her students have incredible wisdom. Overall, Torres’s program aims to help students become more resilient and better equipped to deal with the challenges they face. Noticed a shift in student disposition AVID was the start, but it grew from there. Nothing worse as a teacher than feeling ill-equipped for your students. Starting a Project-based learning program that had a counselor in the classroom. Soapbox project Jevon McCormick episode The counselor comes in one time a week. Daily practices - therapist comes once a week Circle of Security gave us ways to talk about things that were challenging. Helped students feel like they had a place every week to deal with what was going on in their lives. Savior Complex Kids get recommended to come into this class. The interview process for students. The goal is to see it at every high school. Use it to talk about characters in literature The Power of different roles in Resilient Schools It makes sense for students to make sense of their understanding Are we thinking beings who feel or feeling beings who think? We are so much more complex than that. Awesome People in Progress Teaching brain states in regular classes. Nobody is harder on us than we are on ourselves. The role of the judge saboteur. The goal is to do no harm The goal is to have the students start using these things with their own kids and families later in life. My students have incredible wisdom. We need a willing teacher and a partnership. See this community About Emily Torres Emily Torres has been an educator with Spokane Public Schools for 21 years. In 2016, she helped pilot a program for trauma-impacted teens. This unique counselo

Thu, June 22, 2023

Taking Care of the Adults with Dr. Gastrid Harrigan Resilient Schools 20

Dr. Gastrid Harrigan has been an educator for over 19 years as a mathematics teacher, Assistant Principal, and currently as Secondary Principal. In addition, Dr. Harrigan is a Professor of Education at Broward College and Colorado State University Global. He specializes in supporting teachers and school leaders to build trusting relationships with students and improving the culture and climate of schools to optimize staff and students experience. He has extensive experience leading and instructing educators at all levels and has been recognized for his expertise, innovative leadership, student engagement, and academic achievement strategies. He frequently speaks at national conferences on leadership, curriculum, school culture and climate, social-emotional learning, and trauma-informed practices.  He is also the host of The School Leader’s Podcast . The podcast provides bite-size tips, ideas, and PD for emerging and current school leaders.   In 2021, he was named Principal of the Year by Learning for Success, Inc. and nominated for the Principal of the Year in 2023 in Broward County Public Schools, FL.   Adult side of trauma What are the challenges that teachers and staff face now? If we don’t feed the teachers, they’re going to eat the kids.  Take a moment - OOSA Morning meetings and staff meetings start with a mindfulness moment. It’s ok for the principal to lead these mindful moments. Been in the journey for 6 years. Started looking at ACES (adverse childhood experiences study) and saw that many of our adults had high ACE scores. Bringing in community partners Striving to meet their needs, regardless of what they are struggling with. The staff felt the kids have issues, it’s not me. The child triggered the adults’ traumatic experiences. Trained everyone to be trauma-informed. Self-aware of our own triggers to know how we are going to respond. Hurt people hurt people. Whatever helps the person center is worthwhile. Teams have their own mindfulness moment Not prescribing how it’s done, but that it’s done. Additional benefits to making people be mindful. Receiving grants - teams are getting together and finding ways to make more of this possible. Zen spot - one for adults and one for kids. We need to make it safe for people to center themselves. How to connect @ drgharrigan . www.drgharrigan.com We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and mor

Thu, June 15, 2023

Managing the Aftermath of a Traumatic Event at Your School with Rachel Archambault Resilient Schools 19

Rachel Archambault, MA CCC-SLP is an SLP Program Specialist for Broward County Public Schools. After a traumatic event happened at her workplace on 2/14/18, she looked for ways to help work with students (and herself) after trauma. She found trauma-informed care and has been presenting nationally to SLPs and other providers on how TIC can be used in their setting. She runs the PTSDSLP.com web site and Instagram account, @ PTSD.SLP which discusses TIC from a speech lens. Pillars of trauma-informed care 3–12 pillars of Trauma, but here are the six. Safety Trustworthiness & Transparency Peer Support Collaboration & Mutuality Empowerment Voice & Choice Cultural, Historical, & Gender Issues Aftermath of Marjory Stoneman Douglas Transparency - There’s no rulebook for this. We have a rulebook and it is what other people have experienced. Camera crews were around 24/7. 3600 students at the school. Anything was under a microscope. Kept things quiet, but it made them Celebrity visiting, but made it scary Some people were offered transparency Control in a situation Three E’s Definition of Trauma [[What Happened to You]]: three E’s” definition of trauma: “that a trauma has three key aspects—the event, the experience, and the effects. The complexities of these three interrelated components are what should be considered in clinical work and studied in research” Loaded school with school resource officers. What would make a big group of people able to cope better. Connection - Forming a connection with someone who has experienced trauma is a way to help them overcome it. Fishing in the Olds and Russian Rivers How do we form connections with students? Therapeutic speaking - active listening Let them determine the connection and relationship It’s not personl We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit <a

Thu, June 01, 2023

Discipline Vs Punishment with Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz Resilient Schools 18

Rebecca Lewis-Pankratz works with both communities and schools across the US to truly solve poverty and heal trauma. She does this by helping brilliant and caring leaders create sustainable ecosystems of resilience through building better relationships.  Rebecca fought her way out of poverty and the trailer park in 2011 with three young sons. A local poverty resolution project found Rebecca and activated her journey. She later went to work for that non-profit and then went on to build multiple projects like it to help more families. In 2015 She started working with public education and ignited a trauma-informed schools movement in her state and beyond. Rebecca experienced a lifetime of trauma and poverty and through access to buffering relationships she healed from both and continues to light the path for others.  Discipline vs. Punishment Discipline - safety, belonging, dignity Punishment - Threat, isolation and shame Where we come from - paradigm around the way people do life Behaviorism - if you did something you chose to do it. Good choices and bad choices “We have to motivate you through rewards” They punish because they want to see kids succeed. It comes from love and fear. Respect people and where they are at. Emotional brain causes thinking brain to go off line Is the kid regulated and ready to have the conversation. Cognitive dissonance is the space in between the new and the old paradigm. 2–3 years for a school that is bought in to start humming with new approaches. Punishment is fast and it works on some kids. Trauma-informed ISS room. Magic combo of strength and warmth and expectation Everybody learning at different rates Resilience as something that is built internally. Lots of institutions have been closed over the psat many years Lack of resilience in our neighborhoods. Finding support for kids Resilience = relationships How to get kids more access to positive, healthy adults. Isolated because of poverty. Building resilience by building community Events that go on in human beings’ lives Character is assigning status to someone. Unique to you - What makes the world lucky to have you in it? Warm and fuzzy vs. Stoic and reserved essdack.org resilience work that we do. Conference every November - Bridging to Resilience November 8–10 We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Sa

Thu, May 25, 2023

Just-In-Time Coaching for Students with Maria Barrera Resilient Schools 17

Maria Barrera is the founder of Clayful , a company on a mission to help address the mental health crisis. Through life chaging and life saving coaching, kids build the skills and resilience to tackle anything that comes their way.  Throughout her career in education, technology, and human resources, she has always been focused on solving big problems in complex systems. Now, she is tackling the biggest problem of all - the mental health crisis.  Maria’s dedication to helping others is rooted in her own experiences. She ran her first coaching session when she was just 15, and has always found joy in coaching others through everyday life stressors and challenges. Her passion for education led her to start a tutoring company while getting her engineering degrees at Stanford University, and to working with thousands of districts as a member of the founding team at Nearpod.  With Clayful, Maria is bringing together education, technology, and healthcare in a way that is helping kids improve their mental wellness, regardless of socio-economic status. Why do this through schools and not through parents? Life saving and life changing preventative coaching Therapy vs. coaching Always focused on moving the student forward. Don’t treat or diagnose mental health disorders. The Orange Years Helping kids build the skills, resilience, boundaries and strategies they need Rising suicide rates in 8 year olds helping kids get support early. Mental health for kids: working with families Mental health challenges were showing up in the classrooms in the form of attendance & behavior issues, teacher retention, poor performance and grades. Who do you work with and how do we fit in with your system? The biggest need is a kid coming in with an extreme thought and go through that mind work to change their perspectives. Needs to happen in the moment. Identify patterns and behaviors for kids and provide content for kids in their school specifically. Responsive to student needs. With the right tools, we can Anything else you want to share with our audience? clayful.co/resilientschools We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:</

Thu, May 18, 2023

Connection in an Easy Way with Christel Reaves Resilient Schools 16

Christel Reaves is a wife, mother of two children, and the founder and CEO of Connected Class where she has built an online community with numerous resources for educators and students. In addition, Christel developed a platform to help educators communicate with families and provided them with over 150 Learning Link animated videos in literacy and math skills to support differentiated instruction and family engagement through exciting games, strategies, and activities.  Over the past 25 years, Mrs. Reaves has been a classroom teacher, district administrator, and consultant.  She has taught Pre-K to 12th grade and developed educators in over 100 schools throughout the State of Florida with customized professional development. Christel has presented to thousands of public and nonpublic school educators from the national to local level. Christel’s dedication to education has led to her being designated as the 2020 STEM Small Business Innovator of the Year by the Space Coast Chapter of Women in Defense. Christel has been named Teacher of the Year by her peers and nominated for the Dwyer Award for Teaching Excellence in Palm Beach County, Florida. Mrs. Reaves was also featured on Taking the Lead, a WPBF Channel 25 News segment about being an innovative teacher and inspiring students to achieve. Christel obtained her master’s degree in Educational Leadership K–12 from Florida Atlantic University. Christel Reaves also holds a bachelor’s degree from the State University of New York (S.U.N.Y) College at Cortland in Elementary Education and Early Secondary Biology Education. Parents don’t always know what is going on in the classroom? How can we unite the tie between parents and students? Game, strategy, or activity that teachers to do it in the classroom. Parents get it and then can access it without an email or password. Videos are easy to follow because they are animated. Teacher/parent relationship support. Even if the parent feels intimated by math, watching the video helps them feel confident. Connected class - customized PD instructional leadership institute Week in math, ELA, then determine goals they want to focus on. Connections to enable growth and learning. Henderson and MAP school family connection on student achievement Can’t get to academics because we are so busy dealing with behaviors. The ultimate cure for trauma is connection Many games and activities are about connecting directly with people 1:1. attention span is really short. How to overcome our perception of family engagement Monthly fact fluency challenge “Stop whining and just read with me.” Playing games with parents instead of giving homework. Rock Paper scissors, add subtract or multiply. Video embedded e

Thu, April 06, 2023

The Authority: Baruti Kafele on The Equity & Social Justice Education 50 Resilient Schools 15

In this episode, we’re bringing you a conversation from The Authority Podcast, part of the Be Podcast Network.   Today’s guest, Principal Baruti Kafele is author of seven best-selling books, including the topic of today’s episode: The Equity & Social Justice Education 50 .   He and Ross discuss:   ●      Equity vs. Equality — the strategy vs. the goal and why it matters ●      Does my presence positively alter the trajectory of my students? ●      The personal nature of this work and this book. How Principal Kafele learned to share his story to the benefit of his students. ●      Becoming credible to your students ●      “I want my readers to be comfortable with being uncomfortable and uncomfortable with being comfortable.” ●      The Big 3: Individuality, Identity, and Voice. Why these are non-negotiables in every classroom. ●      The leader’s role in making equity work resilient   The Authority is a weekly podcast featuring interviews with leading authors from the education world and beyond. Host Ross Romano, a leadership coach, storytelling strategist and edtech advisor, draws out their invaluable insights on leadership, culture-building, transformation, and student & educator success.   Subscribe: ●      Apple: https://apple.co/3ePnTea ●      Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3JxkyeX ●      RSS: https://feeds.libsyn.com/425789/rss   Connect on social media: Principal Baruti Kafele is one of the most sought-after school leadership and classroom equity presenters in America. He has delivered over 2500 conference and program keynotes, professional development workshops, parenting seminars and student assemblies over his 35 years of public speaking. Connect with him: ●      https://principalkafele.com/ ●      https://twitter.com/principalkafele ●      https://www.facebook.com/principalkafele/   Ross Romano is a co-founder of the Be Podcast Network and CEO of September Strategies , a consulting fir

Fri, February 10, 2023

The Dangerous Inadequacy of Joy with Matthew Taylor Resilient Schools 14

Setting our sights on cultivating joy as the key to solving work culture malaise is inadequate and even dangerous. A singular focus on joy tempts us to view our culture woes as a technical rather than an adaptive challenge because technical challenges are much easier to solve. We take plug-and-play “joy factor” activities off the shelf and avoid anything that doesn’t feel good.  This creates dissonance for people when they are experiencing challenges. Even more dangerously, the focus on creating joy—even thoughtful joy—obscures or distracts from what our work culture truly needs to create the conditions for people to thrive.  Those conditions are built on connection, care and challenge. Pushing joy in the wrong moments leads to people becoming frustrated and focused on resenting you rather than collectively moving toward a collective awareness and intention that can truly shift your work culture.   Joy is important. But it is overused when used as a strategy. The overuse of joy as a strategy to build culture Positivity by Frederickson Conditions for joy - surroundings are safe and familiar. People who are going after joy can create dissonance. Maslow’s hierarchy of needs Social awareness What schools and educators need right now? They need to feel like they are not alone. What types of issues are the wrong focus on joy? Planned a lunch - we had some bumps, let’s move on. People were hurting, and needed to be affirmed. Trying to infuse positivity and camaraderie where people needed affirmation. Not meeting people where they were. People need three things to feel like they’re thriving   Connection - having real conversations. Care Challenged A space for emotional experience to be shared. Vulnerability is important Show up as their full selves Care is about compassion and belief in someone. Are they invested in my well-being? Do leaders care about their teachers’ well-being as much they care about the students’? Clear is kind. Connection and care without challenge is enabling. Challenge is still a necessary ingredient to improve culture Finding and owning their locus of control. Make it clear what is and is not in and out of control. Challenge - identify places where we do have locus of control. Hold each other accountable. How do you know the right thing to challenge on? What do people need right now? They need to feel seen, supported and they need hope. How to take control? Listening. We need to do a better job of creating those spaces.   About Matt Taylor   Matt Taylor is the CEO and founder of The Noble Story Group- a leadership coachi

Tue, January 24, 2023

Improving the Student Environment with Lauren Jewett Resilient Schools 13

Staff mindset, what can I control vs. what can we not control Advocate for students and teachers If we’re not well, how can we promote wellness for our students? Every day is a fresh start. How to tell between what is a special need and what is trauma. Kids start to other themselves at a certain point when they see they aren’t getting what others are getting. Self-beliefs around learning Helping students say positive things about themselves. Asking students what their strengths are and what they’re good at. All kids need help, regardless of their IEP status. Ross Greene’s work on lagging skills. Difference between defining and diagnosing a kid. Are there tools and strategies in the classroom that make it easy for the student to be successful? Flexible seating, flexible work environments?   We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Sun, January 22, 2023

How To Help Kids Win In School And Life With Mitch Weathers Resilient Schools 12

As students, we all know the importance of being successful in school. But what does it really take to achieve that success? While good grades and test scores are certainly important, there are other key skills that can make a big difference in a student’s ability to succeed. These skills, known as executive functioning skills, can be described as the things students need to be successful in school and in life. Executive functioning skills include things like goal setting, working memory, time and task management, organizational skills, accountability, and self-regulation. These skills are crucial for helping students feel successful, even if they don’t always experience success in terms of grades or other traditional measures. Over the past few years, there have been numerous disruptions to traditional schooling, from the COVID–19 pandemic to online learning and hybrid models. These disruptions can make it even harder for students to develop and hone their executive functioning skills. That’s where Mitch, the founder of Organized Binder, comes in. Mitch started Organized Binder to help students who were struggling with school to be more successful by teaching them the executive functioning skills they need to succeed. As Mitch says, “School is a game, and when you know how to play the game, you can be successful.” He emphasizes the importance of being ready to play the game for the sake of your team, whether that team is a group of classmates or a group of coworkers. And the key to playing the game well is having strong executive functioning skills. So, how can students learn and develop these skills? According to Mitch, there are three key factors to teaching executive functioning skills: modeling, explicit instruction, and consistent and predictable routines. In other words, students are best able to learn these skills when they are explicitly modeled for them, when they get to practice them, and when they have consistent and predictable routines that allow them to practice these skills on a regular basis. For example, it’s not enough to just tell students to be on time or to be ready to learn. Instead, students need to see what it looks like to be on time and what it looks like to be ready to learn. As they get exposure to these habits and routines, they are better able to learn and internalize them. Regardless of what type of profession kids end up having, their executive functioning skills will enable them to be successful throughout their life. And, as Stanford University research has shown, these skills can have a big impact on a student’s overall well-being and happiness. In fact, adults often say, “I wish I had these executive functioning skills when I was a kid!” But the good news is that it’s never too late to learn and develop these skills. In fact, there are many experts, like David Allen and Michael Hyatt, who have made millions of dollars teaching time and task management skills

Wed, January 18, 2023

Making a Reset Room with Dr. Wendy Watson Resilient Schools 11

Dr. Wendy Watson is the Principal of Garry Middle School in Spokane, WA. Garry is a Title I school, and they took a unique approach In recent years, Dr. Wendy Watson and her team at the school have made a concerted effort to improve support for students’ academic and behavioral needs. This has involved increasing the number of behavior interventionists from one to four, and adding additional support systems to help students de-escalate and regulate their emotions. One of the key challenges faced by Dr. Watson and her team was ensuring that these support systems worked well together. To address this, they brought a group of adults together to brainstorm and problem-solve. This team-oriented approach has been crucial in helping them create a highly trusting and supportive environment for their students. The results of these efforts have been impressive. Since implementing these changes, they have seen a 59% drop in overall suspensions, and a marked improvement in students’ ability to regulate their emotions and behavior. Of course, making these changes has not been without its challenges. Communication breakdowns are inevitable when implementing significant changes, and it can be difficult to stay focused and on track when dealing with the pressures of data and administration. However, Dr. Watson and her team have found that taking a restorative approach, and being forgiving of miscommunications, has been key to their success. One key factor in their ability to make these changes has been hope. As the interviews with Melissa Sadin and Cathleen Beachboard on the Resilient Schools website highlight, hope is a powerful motivator and can be a key factor in making schools more resilient. Overall, Dr. Watson’s experience has taught her that making positive changes in schools can be challenging, but the rewards are worth it. By working together, and focusing on the needs of their students, they have been able to create a supportive and resilient learning environment. -   Resources wrapped up in academics Needed a lot of behavior support as well. Moved from 1 building interventionist to 4 behavior interventionist. Adding additional support systems. You start naturally problem-solving. Here’s the problem, how do we get together, and how do we make it work? We got a group of adults together to help kids de-escalate kids. Need to work through what everyone’s needs are in then put everyone together. Wonderful people who have the toughest jobs of dealing with emotional People are naturally learning from one another learn how to work with kids and help them regulate. Being part of a team, no sense of people being in their own separate offices. Built-in support for when adults are overwhelmed. Highly trusting place for students to come when they are dis-regulated. 22 staff members w

Mon, January 02, 2023

Human-Focused Culture with LaVonna Roth Resilient Schools 10

As an engaging and interactive keynote speaker, consultant, educator, and mom, LaVonna bridges her passion for how the brain learns with identifying how every individual S.H.I.N.E.s with their mindset and social-emotional well-being. She leads a small business where her and her team boost schools in embodying a Human-Focused Culture. A culture where we put those doing the work at the heart of the impact desired. How? By supporting schools in harnessing the S.H.I.N.E. framework, increasing psychological safety, & building a foundation based on the brain sciences. S.H.I.N.E. is the secret to a work environment where all want to be! LaVonna has 3 degrees, is the author of 8 books, and has worked with organizations in the U.S./Canada, Europe, South America, and the Middle East.  She is the creator and founder of the Ignite Your S.H.I.N.E.® framework and also Prime to S.H.I.N.E. where she coaches educators in how to make an impact through educational consulting – part-time or full-time. S.H.I.N.E. will leave you inspired. Help you find your power through ah-ha moments.  Ignite the fire within you to have the confidence in who YOU are and what you do, because YOU are the difference maker! Creating a human-focused culture in schools is crucial for fostering a sense of inclusion and psychological safety among students and staff. This means putting people first and making sure that everyone feels valued and included. According to LaVonna Roth, it’s important to start with small, low-risk activities, such as check-ins, to build trust and create a safe space for vulnerable conversations. Asking the right questions is also crucial; instead of asking “how do we solve this?”, try asking “how might we solve this?” to make it a group effort and encourage creativity. In addition to creating a safe space for conversation, it’s important to evaluate and release stress in a proactive way. This means being open and honest about where we are at and whether we are living up to our ideals, and taking time to check in with each other before things get too overwhelming. To help foster a human-focused culture, Roth created the SHINE Framework, which focuses on strengths and encourages individuals to be self-aware, have a heart for humanity, inspire others, navigate challenges, and be exceptional. By focusing on strengths and empathy, we can create a more resilient and inclusive learning environment for all. Human Focused Culture - how to create a place where people want to be. Putting people first makes a big impact. How does the brain thrive best in achievement It starts with everyone feeling valued When people feel included, they can ask vulnerable questions. Must go through different levels of psychological safety to get to the highest level. It’s difficult to ask harder questions if you’re afraid to ask even simpler questions. True empathetic listening ear. <

Sat, December 24, 2022

How to Increase Hope with Cathleen Beachboard Resilient Schools 9

Cathleen Beachboard is an award-winning educator, best-selling author, and leading innovative expert on raising psychological hope in schools. Her Building H.O.P.E.© framework has improved resilience, well-being, and achievement in thousands of schools across the country. As a sought-after speaker on well-being and retention, she provides practical tools and strategies for parents, educators, and school leaders to increase hope so students and staff can thrive. Hope is a positive cognitive process Hope is a mix of your goals, pathways and agency. Hope is determined in different ways. Hope is measurable. How do you increase your hope? Your hope level is similar to your friends. Introduce someone who is at a different level. Put a high hope kid next to a low-hope kid. Hope scale at Thrively If you’re high hope, spread it. If you’re low in hope, start improving your hope. Wherever you are lowest, start there. Low in pathways - one way to solve a problem. Backup plans show you that you can improve your plans. Will power and self-control. Even if you don’t have control, having back up plans help you feel more in control. Hope Research As hope increases, the impact of stress decreases. Teachers can be overwhelmed, too. Hope is the greatest way to impact secondary trauma. Mindset Looking at your culture and seeing what you already have in place and modify them to be more hopeful. Strategies for principals: vulnerability. Don’t let problems fester - give everyone a post it, write down the problem they’re having right now. Get out of silos. Problem speed-dating. Plan hopeful practices into their day. Write gratitude emails to three people each day. When we have a problem, we focus on the problem, vent about the problem for 1–2 minutes, then list all of your strengths, figure out how your strength can be used for your problem. Get the book The School of Hope? Connect with Cathleen on Twitter   We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educationa

Fri, December 23, 2022

Managing Obsessive Compulsive Disorder with Stephen Smith Resilient Schools 8

Stephen Smith’s life was going great. He was an award-winning college quarterback with a vibrant social life and a bright future ahead of me. But then OCD came out of nowhere and derailed everything. He started having repeated intrusive thoughts that made him doubt the most fundamental characteristics about himself. Depression hit, and he felt like he was stuck. He went from playing quarterback in college to being housebound in six months due to misdiagnosed and untreated OCD. It took a lot of time and money to access effective OCD treatment, but once he had the right diagnosis and found ERP therapy, his mental health improved, he returned to school, and he finished my football career. He felt like he had a future once again. Getting the treatment he needed to conquer OCD was a battle on its own. It made him wonder: Why isn’t effective care more accessible and affordable to those of us struggling with OCD? Hi experience fueled the creation of NOCD. Talented, like-minded individuals joined me to make this vision a reality. With their passion and innovation, it took off in a big way. Now, NOCD is working to help 180 million people with OCD around the world regain their lives. OCD is a misunderstood condition, yet it’s one of the few words in our society that everyone recognizes. It’s a condition where people have recurring thoughts and fears that violate their core values and beliefs. If you have someone close to you that has OCD, you might want to ask them questions such as “what is causing you to do these things?” or “Do you have unwanted thoughts?” or “Do the thoughts feel real, even though you know they’re not?” It’s important to note that a licensed therapist should do diagnostic assessments with kids. Generalized therapy can be harmful to kids. It’s estimated that 1 in 40 people have OCD in their lives. If left untreated, people with OCD are more likely to die by suicide. OCD is caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, but it often takes 14–17 years to get evidence-based treatment. However, with the right treatment, people with OCD can learn to manage the condition in a three month window. Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) is a very effective treatment for OCD. ERP is based on the idea that trying to stop the thoughts makes the compulsions Watch the clip from 20/20 on Howie Mandel and his experience with OCD . Powerful. OCD is one of the only words in society that everyone recognizes and everyone misunderstands. Condition where people have recurring thoughts and fears that violate the people’s core values and beliefs. Questions you can ask: what is causing you to do these things? Do you have unwanted thoughts? Do the thoughts feel real, even though you know they’re not? Licensed therapist can do diagnostic assessments with kids. Gen

Wed, November 30, 2022

It's All About The People With Erika Garcia-Niles Resilient Schools 7

Dr. Erika Garcia-Niles is a principal in MIssouri. https://twitter.com/flyingmonkey13/status/1499808853063577600?s=21 we don’t remember our impact but they sure do. behind the scenes at new district better than I could have imagined. Focus on people - It’s all about the people. People by day, paperwork by night. It’s about surrounding yourself with the right people. Leave before you’re ready. Don’t find the next thing, find the right thing. Use coaching to help someone reflect on themselves. Ask questions of them to get them to reflect We can get hung up on the things we don’t believe, rather than what we do believe. Every single child should have a person. I feel like school was made for me! Eric Makelky Special Education What teachers need from principals right now? How to be a transformative principal? Check in with your teachers! We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

S11 E509 · Sun, November 27, 2022

With Henry Turner

Dr. Henry J. Turner is an award-winning high school principal, author, and nationally renowned speaker.  He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K12 Principal of the Year by K–12 Dive. Henry is the author of the newly released book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School, published by DBC inc. As a national speaker, he shares his experience as an innovative instructional leader, passionate advocate, and committed antiracist educator with educators and organizational leaders. Henry works with educators, leaders, and communities on how to create a culture that commits to diversity, equity, and inclusion empowers students’ voices and addresses economic and racial disparities. He has a biweekly newsletter, “Lessons on Social Justice Leadership” that can be found at HenryJTurner.com . Race is a social fabric that has been created in our society. If we believe in all students succeed, then we need to respond to students’ needs. School was founded on separating students and what systems were excluded. 25% of students were on IEP, 50% of black students were on IEPs. Racism - system of advantage based on race Who are we blaming for these disparities? What is wrong with these students vs. what is wrong with these schools? 80% of educators want to do racial justice work in their schools. Leaders are nervous about diving into this - how Teaching students to stand up for someone else. Start small How do you make sure students are seen? How do you pronounce your name? Intent is good, impact is bad. The way to make students feel included is to empower them. How do you get started? Creating agreements with students Name activity - sharing the history of your name This is the way to begin to talk aboutt he work. Talking about race really begins with talking about us. Focus on relationships. Who are we blaming for the problem? - What did I do over the course of the year to help you feel comfortable sharing that with me? Sponsors Pikmykid</

Thu, November 24, 2022

Mental Health Awareness with Dr. Elaine Harper Resilient Schools 6

Elaine Harper is an experienced teacher, counselor and leader in the arenas of education and mental health. Dr. Harper is the former educational services director for Positive Education Program in Cleveland, OH. Her practice, Elaine Harper Consulting LLC, serves by teaching, facilitating, coaching and mentoring individuals, teams, schools and organizations who work with children and adolescents presenting emotional and behavioral challenges. Dr. Harper founded Trauma Sensitive Teaching Network which connects teachers, counselors, leaders and others dedicated to serving children and adolescents through compassionate interactions and decision making. Dr. Harper earned her doctorate degree in urban education with specialization in learning and development from Cleveland State University. Her doctoral research centered on social emotional learning and bibliotherapy. Secondary expertise on mental awareness into schools. Change is loss. No mental health awareness in graduate courses. Chief of a department - technician vs. leadership. How to learn the skills needed 3 areas to pay attention to: students staff systems Trauma informed teaching practices. Trauma-informed care: definition SAMSA - Realize Recognition Respond Resist retraumatization Culture of the system discipline, school well-being, programs Find someone where they are at and build up from there. Easily maintained over time. Programs matter, but it is the approach we take that really matters. Program, Process, People ElaineHarper.com How to be a transformative principal? Focus in on relationships. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, September 01, 2022

How to Choose a Mentor with Dr. Deborah Heiser Resilient Schools 5

Founder of The Mentor Project www.mentorproject.org bringing STEM mentors to schools and the community. Deborah Heiser, PhD holds a degree in Applied Developmental Psychology with a specialty in redefining what being older looks and feels like. She is a Tedx Speaker, 92nd Street Y Speaker, 100 Coaches, Adjunct Professor, recognized by Thinkers50, award winning researcher, consultant and coach. The Mentor Project - More than 100 top-level experts into classrooms STEM/art, business, law, finance, etc. Mentoring students for free - K-University Goal is to level the playing field. Mentor is there to guide, inspire, and support, and help you out there along the way. Teacher is teaching you something specific. Mentor enhances what a person already has. You don’t know what you don’t know. Vertical and lateral mentors Mentor focused organization - we provide supports for each mentor. We have as many models as we have mentors. Javier - Hackathons Working with students to patent inventiones [[Aton Gotian]] Building 8-bit computers Mentors give talks in schools Mini-masterminds Ask a mentor You can be vulnerable with a mentor. Mentors are there to bring out the best in you Mentors open the eyes of mentees so they can go on their own. You don’t have to spend all your time with just one mentor Mentorship can be one-off or in depth. You can have many mentors all throughout your life. Have as many mentors as you need. Many people don’t seek a mentor because they don’t think the mentor would talk with them. Someone looking for a mentor should see how they should be as a mentee. Am I just looking to take? Come in seeing yourself as part of a relationship. Look for someone you feel comfortable talking with. Look at mentorship as a relationship People who are curious, not looking for an answer. What am I going to do with this knowledge. Feeling We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, August 25, 2022

Making Sure Students Are Seen with Henry Turner Resilient Schools 4

Dr. Henry J. Turner is an award-winning high school principal, author, and nationally renowned speaker.  He is most proud of the collaborative community he works within to empower students to fight hate and bigotry in their school. Pointing to his unwavering commitment to equity and a student-centered culture, Henry was named 2020 K12 Principal of the Year by K–12 Dive. Henry is the author of the newly released book, Change the Narrative: How to Foster an Antiracist Culture in Your School, published by DBC inc. As a national speaker, he shares his experience as an innovative instructional leader, passionate advocate, and committed antiracist educator with educators and organizational leaders. Henry works with educators, leaders, and communities on how to create a culture that commits to diversity, equity, and inclusion empowers students’ voices and addresses economic and racial disparities. He has a biweekly newsletter, “Lessons on Social Justice Leadership” that can be found at HenryJTurner.com . Race is a social fabric that has been created in our society. If we believe in all students succeed, then we need to respond to students’ needs. School was founded on separating students and what systems were excluded. 25% of students were on IEP, 50% of black students were on IEPs. Racism - system of advantage based on race Who are we blaming for these disparities? What is wrong with these students vs. what is wrong with these schools? 80% of educators want to do racial justice work in their schools. Leaders are nervous about diving into this - how Teaching students to stand up for someone else. Start small How do you make sure students are seen? How do you pronounce your name? Intent is good, impact is bad. The way to make students feel included is to empower them. How do you get started? Creating agreements with students Name activity - sharing the history of your name This is the way to begin to talk aboutt he work. Talking about race really begins with talking about us. Focus on relationships. Who are we blaming for the problem? - What did I do over the course of the year to help you feel comfortable sharing that with me? We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achi

Thu, August 18, 2022

Preventing Burnout through Care with Nadine Levitt Resilient Schools 3

Nadine Levitt [ Twitter ] is a Swiss-born German, Kiwi, US transplant, and founder of the music technology company, Wurrly, LLC. She began her career as a lawyer but after 6 years of practice, she began to pursue a career in music as a professional opera singer and songwriter. She has performed extensively all over the United States and the world, sharing the stage with David Foster, Andrea Boccelli, Kiri Te Kanawa, Roger Daltry, Christina Perri, and Steven Tyler to name a few. Passionate about music in schools she sits on the national board of Little Kids Rock, and in 2016 led the development of the music education platform  WURRLYedu , which empowers student voices and makes it easy to bring a fun and effective music education to schools. Nadine is also an author of children’s books, including the  My Mama Says  book series, which teaches kids to identify, acknowledge and direct their emotions. PDReimagined.com Mary Ellen Imodino-Yang TEDX Talk Value Care package. Each month has a theme. Work in groups to come up with strategies to come up in daily life. Do things in 2–3 minutes or less. How do you get up when you don’t know where the ground is? The power of curiosity. It’s not an end destination, it’s a journey. Music to move you. The power of music in SEL situations. We shouldn’t teach music to be a musician. Physiological - music is one of the only things that can really get into our brains. Music can interrupt other emotional cycles. People are more inclined to buy expensive items when the store is playing classical music. How to rekindle their passion? Time scarcity - brought on by an emotional response that you’re feeling overwhelm. Interrupt overwhelm - do something different Free to teachers, cost to districts. The more you apply these skills the easier it is to avoid and manage overwhelm. Emotions are just messages We are engineered to see patterns. Thoughts are just patterns. Often our thoughts are not based in patterns. When you become aware you’re telling yourself a story, just tell yourself. Respond rather than react. Communication cards Need to speak freely: challenged and rewarded. When we share, we don’t feel shame. The need for people to take responsibility for their part. Leadership - formal and informal leadership opportunities. Leadership is having control over the outcome.

Thu, August 11, 2022

Model It, Live It, Let Them Experience It. with James Moffett Resilient Schools 2

James Moffett is a principal in Kansas and he loves kids. Pretty empathetic Relationships Teri Barilla Question things I did as an educator If you were doing these things before the pandemic, you were as ready as you could be for the pandemic If you wouldn’t accept it from your supervisor, don’t dish it out to your kids. Accountability, structure, consequences, - all structured in love. It’s such a mindset shift for educators because it’s not how school was for us. Model it, live it, let them experience it. How do we help schools see that kids are respected on day 1. Teachers are structured beings Each vs. every. The Rabbit Effect How to be a transformative principal? Rest and recover and put more focus on the relationships you have in your building. We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

Thu, August 04, 2022

Hope And Laughter with Melissa Sadin Resilient Schools Episode 1

Dr. Sadin has served as a special education teacher, a gifted education teacher, and a building administrator.  Most recently she served as a director of special education.  Dr. Sadin has been vice-president of her local School Board and is recognized as a Master School Board Member. She has conducted research on the perceptions of teachers working to create trauma-informed classrooms.  Dr. Sadin is a published author and has produced numerous webinars on children with attachment trauma in schools. Currently, Dr. Sadin works a director of exceptional education and as an education consultant and developmental trauma expert providing professional development to school districts, municipal service providers and parents.  Nationally, Dr. Sadin is a highly sought-after keynote speaker and conference presenter. Her Trauma Guide Series of books are available on her website, www.traumasensitive.com . Building resilient students Hope - Start and end with the people. Over half of teachers are seeking to leave! We are doing it to ourselves. We have to start with what happened to us? Resilience is the ability to adapt and overcome challenges. Google Meet rooms open. Choose 1 issues The flight of teachers from the profession. What are the components that a school leader needs to create a resilient school? Deeply rooted in social justice and forgive yourself. Google Scholar - science of hope - When you say the word hope, you begin what they define as hope. Use the word Hope Then laugh.   We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.  IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more: Simplify and streamline technology Save teachers’ time Reliably meet Tier 1 standards Improve student performance on state assessments 🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.