Bridging to Resilience

Children are developing in a rapidly changing landscape. Teachers, administrators, and other adults are struggling to meet the challenges. Yet, even as we examine the ways in which adversity can hinder development, we know that resiliency factors can build back stronger. Educational Neuroscience shows that the brain is remarkably plastic. With each experience and each bit of information absorbed, our students’ brains are fundamentally changing. As learners are immersed in rich social, cultural, and academic environments, their brains are rapidly working to remodel themselves, resulting in more efficient integrated neural networks. In this session, learn how students’ brains shape which circuits remain active and which are pruned away, and how forming safe, neuro-affirming connections with adults can improve health and efficiency. This session also examines how learning and identity are formed in the developing brain, and how awareness and language of the nervous system hold the keys to unlocking felt-safety.

Have you heard of Restorative Practices and believe it is the right path that you want to be on as an educator? Have
you talked to colleagues, read a couple articles, maybe read.a book...and you still are not sure where to start! Come
join my session to learn about three practices you can implement starting tomorrow (and 1 bonus idea) that will get you
and your school on the first steps to Restorative Practices being implemented to support all kids and behavior! Oh, and
these things will create positive behavior practices in your classroom and school grounded in connection and empathy!

Delve into the transformative power of visual arts in education and discover how it can significantly enhance cognitive functions, employ visual language in learning comprehension, and enrich the overall educational experience of students. This presentation will explore the multifaceted benefits of integrating visual arts into the academic curriculum.  Join us for an enlightening session highlighting the pivotal role of visual arts in creating a well-rounded, cognitively enriching educational experience. This presentation is ideal for educators, administrators, and advocates of arts integration, offering valuable insights and practical strategies for leveraging the visual arts to unlock students' full potential.