For this webinar series, participants will automatically be enrolled in all 5 sessions.

Speaker

Theresa Melito-Conners, Ph.D., (Dr. MC), CEO/Founder of Dr. MC’s Self-Care Cabaret, Special Education Administrator, Melrose Public Schools

Description

Body dissatisfaction and disordered eating patterns can emerge as early as elementary school –  and can profoundly shape a student’s experience in the classroom. We will examine how schools may unintentionally reinforce harmful body image messages. Then, we will learn how educators can create body-inclusive, supportive environments that strengthen students’ sense of belonging, regardless of their physical appearance.

To receive PDPs and CEUs, participants must attend all 5 sessions and successfully pass a quiz following Session 5. Within 24 hours of the live webinar, registrants will be emailed a link to view the recorded webinar. The recording will be made available for 7 days after each session.

This workshop series is designed to empower educators with the knowledge and skills necessary to create a more body-inclusive and supportive learning environment. The landscape of body image and eating disorders is a critical concern in our schools today. Research indicates that conversations about body dissatisfaction can start as early as third grade, with a significant percentage of children and adolescents exhibiting disordered eating patterns. The impact of these issues is profound, as eating disorders carry the second-highest mortality rate of any psychiatric illness. This first session will address the urgency of this issue, dispel common misconceptions about eating disorders, and provide practical strategies to cultivate respect for diverse bodies and promote a sense of belonging for all students.

This session equips educators with essential skills to recognize the often subtle warning signs and understand the multifaceted nature of eating disorders in the school environment. Participants will gain clarity on the spectrum of disordered eating behaviors, the diagnostic criteria, and specific behavioral and emotional indicators that may present in students. We will also explore the various risk factors that can contribute to vulnerability. Furthermore, this session will review relevant Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) guidance for identifying and responding appropriately to these challenges.

This session explores the foundational principles of body positivity, body neutrality, body inclusivity, and the Health at Every Size (HAES) approach, providing educators with a clear understanding of these vital concepts. Participants will critically examine the impact of weight stigma and bias on students and explore practical strategies for fostering a school environment that genuinely values and respects diverse body sizes and shapes. Participants will also learn valuable tips for using inclusive language and communication to integrate body-positive messages across various curriculum areas.

This session examines the school environment and its potential impact on students’ body image and sense of belonging. Educators will analyze the implications of school policies and practices. We will explore strategies for reimagining school to make it more inclusive and enjoyable for all abilities and body types. Furthermore, the session will address how activities can be navigated with greater body awareness. Participants will also consider ways to create more accessible and accommodating environments for students. 

This final session will briefly revisit the key themes and insights gained throughout the workshop series. A focused discussion will address the significant role of social media in shaping body image. The connection between positive body image, overall mental health, and fostering a strong sense of belonging for all students will be reinforced. We will explore the concept of self-care and how to practice and promote it in school. Participants will leave with a renewed purpose in creating a more body-inclusive and supportive school environment.

About the Speaker

Theresa Melito-Conners, Ph.D. (Dr. MC) (she/her) is the founder of Dr. MC’s Self-Care Cabaret, a suite of theater-inspired self-care and professional development services for helping professionals. The Self-Care Cabaret encompasses workshops, a podcast, and educational curricula —  focused on accessible, realistic strategies that equip and empower.

Dr. MC first recognized the need for such strategies as a special education administrator. She realized individuals in people-first, service-oriented roles often struggle with prioritizing self-care and work-life balance and lack resources. Curious, Dr. MC pursued her Ph.D. in educational leadership from Lesley University, honing in on self-care and renewal for helping professionals. In addition to her doctorate and published research, she is a licensed K-12 counselor with a master’s of education in school counseling from Salem State University and a B.A. in theatre studies from Emerson College. Her true joy is bringing her scholarship, experience, and zest to audiences of all kinds nationwide. 

Dr. MC is a regular guest on high-profile podcasts and publications. She has a growing social community @DrMCselfcare on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn and lives in Massachusetts.

Membership Information

Most MPY webinars are available ONLY to current staff from member districts and organizations. Public school memberships include police and fire personnel. Former and retired employees and members of committees, including but not limited to, PTO/PTA, PAC, School Improvement Councils, Health Councils, Drug/Alcohol Councils, and school volunteers, are not considered MPY members.

PDPs and CEUs

MPY is an approved Professional Development Provider through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education (Provider No. F20180079). Professional Development Points (PDPs) are offered for most MPY professional development webinars. PDPs are issued in 10 hour increments, per DESE requirements.

Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are available for clinical staff through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) and the Massachusetts Mental Health Counselors Association, Inc. (MaMHCA). The NASW and the MaMHCA approve each event individually. CEUs may be given in hourly increments.

Event Cancellation Policy

If you are unable to attend a MPY webinar you must cancel, through Bonnie Mullen at bonnie@mpyinc.org, one business day before the webinar.

For MPY hybrid conferences, the date in-person registration closes will be posted on MPY’s website. Virtual conference registration will close one business day before the hybrid conference. You cannot cancel or switch your registration from in-person to virtual after in-person registration closes. Please email Bonnie Mullen at bonnie@mpyinc.org with any questions regarding registration.

 

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All sessions are 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm.

  • Session 1: October 22, 2025, Laying the Foundation 
    Session 2: October 29, 2025, Identifying Signs and Risk Factors 
    Session 3: November 5, 2025, Cultivating a Culture of Acceptance  
  • Session 4: November 12, 2025, Shaping the Environment
  • Session 5: November 19, 2025, Self-Care, Practical Strategies and Wrap-Up