In-Service Workshops

Transitioning from high school to college brings exciting opportunities—and important changes—for students with disabilities. This one-hour presentation will explore how disability services, supports, and student responsibilities shift in the college environment. Participants will learn the key differences between high school and college support as well as what those differences mean in practice for access, accommodations, and self-advocacy. Practical strategies to help students prepare for a successful transition as well as information on a range of college programs and supports will be discussed.

This professional development session is designed to strengthen collaboration, communication, and trust among staff members. “Team Building 101” provides a foundational look at what makes teams thrive in a school or organizational setting. Through interactive exercises, reflective discussions, and practical strategies, participants will explore team dynamics, clarify roles, and learn effective methods for conflict resolution and decision-making. Whether you're part of an administrative team, instructional staff, or support services, this session offers tools to enhance teamwork, boost morale, and create a more cohesive, supportive work environment. This workshop is for teachers, school administrators, or other school staff.

This interactive training will enhance staff's understanding of the reasons behind students' behavior and how they can help their students achieve their goals. The training will cover practical student support strategies that are proactive, compassionate, and student-centered and the importance of responding to behavior with consistency and predictability in the classroom. Participants will explore how to approach their work with a neurodiversity affirming approach and how to effectively flow through challenging situations. This workshop is offered as a single session, multiple sessions, half-day training, or full-day training.

This workshop helps each participant understand what barrier behaviors they have in their personal “Awkward Zone™” — that place of knowing a co-worker or employee is struggling but not knowing what to say or do.

Dive into the world of neuroscience and psychology as this workshop offers a deep dive into how the brain reacts to social media. Explore the relationship between the brain on social media and peer feedback, peer influence, human connection, sleep, and evolutionary psychology. Learn to identify certain signs of addiction in children and adolescents and analyze fMRI scans to see how the neurochemistry of the young and developing mind is changing because of digital overload. How can we replace the dopamine we receive from social media with other forms of dopamine? Is social media a drug? How does social media addiction compare to other forms of addiction such as alcohol and substance abuse? These are just some of the topics to be explored by this presentation by Keegan Lee, a psychology and neuroscience researcher at The University of North Carolina.

Do your kids spend a lot of time on Tiktok, YouTube, or playing Fortnite? Do you as parents struggle to understand everything that is going on in their online lives? You may also be wondering how your own relationship with technology might be healthier. You’re in the right place! Coming out of the pandemic, many of us have spent more time on screens than ever before, and the lines between home, work, and school are blurry, making it challenging to unplug from our devices. Join us as we discuss navigating this balance with tips and tools to: • Achieve sustainable, positive digital practices with family and at work. • Optimize your digital habits for better mental health and family connection. • Prevent and recover from sensory overload and digital overwhelm. • Positively shift your relationship with your devices so they fuel vs. fatigue your relationships.

"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.

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.