In-Service Workshops

"Play is nature's training for life." — Friedrich Froebel

Play is how young children explore, discover, and make sense of the world around them. For children in the early years, play is not a break from learning — it is the learning. It is how they connect with others, develop emotionally, feel safe, and experience a genuine sense of belonging.

In his landmark book The Anxious Generation, Jonathan Haidt makes a compelling case that the erosion of play-based childhood — driven by screens, mobile devices, and shifting societal norms — has had a profound impact on the well-being of today's youth. Current research affirms that free play, social play, imaginative play, and nature-based play are not enrichment extras — they are developmental necessities. Add the lasting emotional impact of the pandemic, and the urgency becomes clear: play is needed now more than ever.

Ideal for educators in Pre-K through Grade 3.

Research shows that there is real power in play. Through play, children develop the social, emotional, cognitive, and physical skills they need to thrive both now and into their futures. Play is both fun and a vital way that children learn about themselves and the world around them. This workshop is recommended for Preschool through Grade 2 staff.

Designed for school psychologists, social workers, guidance counselors, nurses, and special education staff, this workshop will discuss identifying a student's strengths and challenges using neuropsychological testing. Participants will learn how to examine neuropsychological tests, how they are used, and how to develop instructional and behavioral strategies for students based on these assessments.

School nurses provide support and advocacy to students with mental health issues daily and are often the first school professional to recognize the signs and symptoms of a mental health disorder. This workshop will provide school nurses with an update on the most commonly encountered mental health disorders including anxiety, depression, and PTSD and strengthen their skills for managing students’ symptoms of these disorders in the health office. Participants will build on their collaborative and communication skills with school-based student support personnel, including in the context of 504 plans, IEPs, and IHPs, as well as caregivers, and community-based providers.

Perhaps the most important part of a person’s identity is their name and the story behind it. Pronouncing one’s name correctly (by practicing it when necessary) is an authentic connection with both students and adults. In my experience, when learning, using and sharing the story of their name, students and teachers are afforded the opportunity to be in a learning community that is welcoming and supportive of the academic achievement and success of the entire community.

Through this interactive session, attendees will work toward the following outcomes:

• Practice and bring to life the Peace and Justice Institute Principles of “How We Treat Each Other” to promote an equitable, welcoming and inclusive community.
• Develop trust and sensitivity among people who might otherwise not interact with one another.
• Use authentic storytelling to build bridges between different groups, and identify ways to be “allies” so as not to collude through silence.
• Identify specific action steps and realistic goals going forward.

Childhood trauma exposure has increased dramatically, and schools are seeing the impact in rising rates of challenging behavior. The instinct is to respond with stricter discipline, but research shows these approaches often calcify the very behaviors they seek to prevent. This session examines how trauma shows up in schools and how disciplinary responses can either interrupt or accelerate harmful trajectories.

This training is designed for school administrators and boards, as well as policymakers and members of law enforcement. We strongly recommend it for anyone involved in decision making around school discipline policies.

This presentation educates students on the risks, consequences, and realities of sexting in today’s digital world. Students will learn about the emotional, legal, and social impacts of sharing explicit images, even among peers. Through real-life scenarios, interactive discussions, and current data, the session empowers students to make responsible choices, understand consent, protect their digital reputation, and seek help when needed. The goal is to build awareness, promote healthy communication, and reinforce the importance of respecting boundaries—both online and offline.

In today’s world, 24/7 connectivity contributes to digital distraction and phone dependence, which may hinder students' physical, mental, and emotional health. Social media platforms can foster a culture of peer comparison. How do we all shift from digital overload to more tech/life balance? Students will learn the data and be introduced to the LookUp Challenge: a student-led initiative to take a break from phones, social media and technology for a week as a school community on each students' own terms.

This eye-opening presentation explores the evolving landscape of underage substance use, highlighting the cultural, social, and media-driven influences that shape youth behaviors and attitudes. “Culture Shock” delves into how music, social media, peer pressure, and shifting societal norms contribute to the normalization of alcohol, vaping, marijuana, and other substances among teens. Participants will learn about current trends, the risks associated with early substance use, and the disconnect between perception and reality. The session also equips students and staff with strategies to promote healthy decision-making, foster resilience, and create a school culture that challenges harmful norms and supports prevention.

This professional development workshop supports teachers of young children in examining how culture shapes development, learning, and classroom interactions. Participants explore the meaning of culture in early childhood education classrooms and reflect on how children’s identities, family experiences, and community values influence the way they learn and express themselves. This workshop is intended for PreK - Gr. 2 staff.