2024 CDE Fall Conference: Creating a Landscape of Wellbeing and Belonging

Collette Fischer Coaching in Crisis Practical Implementation of Trauma Informed Systems and Practices pptx

This presentation will inform coaching and program development efforts in PreK–12 education as it pertains to effective and equity-focused trauma-informed practice implementation.

Presenters will share lessons from a trauma-informed implementation model (tested over time; pre-COVID-19) and align it to the current state of mental health crisis in PreK–12 education. Additionally, current considerations for trauma-informed implementation and coaching in PreK–12 education will also be addressed through best practice protocols, evidence-based models, and relevant coaching tools.

Session Objectives:

Explore educators' personal perceptions of trauma-informed practices
Explore professional and organizational barriers that impact educators’ implementation of trauma-informed practices
Engage with practical tools for coaching and centering educators in trauma-informed implementation

Speakers

Marni Choice

School Psychologist and Assistant Professor, BVSD & Capella University

Marni Choice-Hermosillo, PHD, NCSP, is a licensed school psychologist with 18 years of experience both as a building based psychologist and as an itinerant support partner in the Office of Social/Emotional Learning. This past school year, Marni moved into a Dean of Student Services... Read More →

Collette Fischer

Psychologist, Senior Instructor, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Seven Falls

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.)
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, community
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Engagement and Connectedness, Team/Shared Leadership/Effective Systems, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness, School Climate/Safety

9:50am MDT

State Strategies for Better Addressing Student Homelessness

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT

Cherry Creek

States are taking a variety of approaches to address the complex issues facing students experiencing homelessness. This presentation will highlight policy reform strategies aimed at removing barriers to the resources and services that many youth encounter so that they can focus on succeeding in school. These reforms include recognizing the role McKinney-Vento homeless liaisons, school counselors, social workers and district staff play in academic achievement of students experiencing homelessness and helping them navigate systems of support.

Session Objectives:

Participants will learn about state policy reforms to address student homelessness and the advocacy necessary to drive that change.

Speakers

Rodd Monts

Director of State Policy, SchoolHouse Connection

Rodd Monts, SHC State Policy Presentation pdf

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Cherry Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other Building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Family School and Community Partnerships, Equity and Diversity, School Climate/Safety, Highly Mobile Youth, Wrap-around Supports

9:50am MDT

The Art of Restorative Leadership: Revolutionizing School Culture with Best Practices

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT

Ballroom

Jennifer Gallegos Landscape Conference The Art of Restorative Leadership Revolutionizing School Culture with Best Practices pdf

This session delves into the essence of restorative practices applied to leadership, fostering a supportive and accountable school environment. We'll integrate other best practices for leadership to tailor your leadership approach to various scenarios. Join us to revolutionize your leadership style, promoting a culture of compassion, respect, and continuous improvement in educational settings.

Session Objectives:

Understand Restorative Leadership Principles: Participants will learn the foundational principles of restorative leadership, including strategies to foster a culture of accountability, empathy, and respect within school environments.
Develop Effective Leadership Skills: Gain practical skills to apply restorative leadership techniques in daily interactions and decision-making processes to effectively manage teams and resolve conflicts.
Enhance School Culture and Climate: Explore methods to implement restorative practices that promote a positive school culture, improve student behavior, and increase educational outcomes through compassionate leadership.

Speakers

Jen Gallegos

Dropout Prevention Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Ballroom

Intended Audience Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety

9:50am MDT

The Collaborative Partnership: High Impact Family Engagement Practices

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT

Royal Gorge

Emma Wahlen CDE Conference FCE Collaborative Partnership EW Emma Wahlen pdf

Families are our most valued partners in supporting the wellbeing and engagement of children at school. During this session participants will gain understanding of a family engagement approach that is trauma-informed and designed to support the collaboration between schools and families. At the close of the session participants will have clarity on how to use the Gathering Input from Families Action Planning Guide as we walk through the steps and best practices.

Session Objectives:

Define meaningful and trauma-informed family engagement
Understand the elements of high impact family engagement strategies
Walk through the implementation steps of the Gathering Input from Families Action Planning Guide

Speakers

Emma Wahlen

Regional Program Manager, Alliance for a Healthier Generation

Strong believer in the power of partnerships to support our students, staff, families, and communities!

Curtis Robbins

Community Health & Engagement, Thriving Schools Kaiser Permanente

Curtis Robbins leads the Thriving Schools initiative for Kaiser Permanente Colorado. Thriving Schools is Kaiser Permanente's commitment to support the health and well-being of teachers, staff, students and their families in K-12 schools.

Bridgette Binford

Senior Workforce Health Consultant, Kaiser Permanente

As a Senior Workforce Health Consultant at Kaiser Permanente, Bridgette supports employer groups in building strategic and comprehensive wellness programs to address the total person. She is also the Thriving Schools Workforce Health lead in Colorado supporting schools and districts... Read More →

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Royal Gorge

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Family School and Community Partnerships, School Climate/Safety

9:50am MDT

The Whole Student Approach: Executive Functioning Strategies for Social-Emotional & Academic Growth

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT

Fountain Creek

Cyle Feingold The Whole Student Approach Results Learning FINAL.pptx pdf

Executive functioning skills are necessary for success in life and academics. This workshop will demonstrate how executive functioning impacts academics, social and emotional wellbeing, and mental health. Participants will simulate the hardships and frustrations of having an executive functioning deficit and leave with strategies to increase confidence, independence, and the mental health of their students. Investing in students' executive functioning skills can benefit school professionals by reducing stress, improving wellbeing, and fostering a more successful learning experience for all. We invite you to our interactive workshop to problem solve, collaborate and find solutions to the everyday challenges executive functioning deficits bring.

Session Objectives:
1) Discover research-based brain development milestones and best practices for supporting executive functioning skills for neurotypical and neurodivergent thinkers.
2) Experience firsthand why students with executive dysfunction can struggle obtaining academic and emotional expectations.
3) Walk away with three easy-to-use strategies that can be implemented right away.

Speakers

Cyle Feingold

Executive Director, Results Learning

Cyle Feingold founded Results Learning in 2004 with a mission to help students learn the way they learn best. For the last 20 years, Cyle has been working with children who have been told that they cannot achieve the same things as “normal” kids. Why? Because he was one of them. In... Read More →

Kristen Monteith

Special Education Program Manager, Results Learning

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Fountain Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators, Special Educaton Providers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Engagement and Connectedness, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness, Wrap-around Supports

9:50am MDT

Whole School Mental Health Best Practice in Real Life

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT

Academy

Betsy Basch Whole School Mental Health Practice in Real Life .pptx pdf

Even though there are best practice guides for well-being and mental health, the gap between best practice and implementation is wide. Join us for a panel of real-life school leaders and mental health professionals from across the state that have successfully implemented best practices for social-emotional well-being. Participants will hear school leaders share their experiences of implementing and sustaining novel interventions such as: ensuring students are not disciplined for mental health experiences, using quarterly data analysis for effective PBIS delivery, supporting special populations, truly welcoming all students and reviewing school-wide individual SEL goals.

Session Objectives:

Participants will learn how school leaders have implemented real-life best practices.
Participants will learn how school leaders have navigated barriers to implement best practices for wellbeing.

Speakers

Betsy Basch

Mental Health Programs Coordinator, Charter School Institute

Betsy Basch is a triple credentialed & licensed clinician and earned my Bachelor’s in Psychology from Campbell University where I also played softball, and earned my Masters in Professional Counseling and my Doctorate in School Psychology from Argosy University-Phoenix. I’ve worked... Read More →

Wednesday September 18, 2024 9:50am - 11:00am MDT
Academy

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Team/Shared Leadership/Effective Systems, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing

11:15am MDT

Collaborative Community Partnerships: A Love Story

Wednesday September 18, 2024 11:15am - 12:25pm MDT

Academy

Lea Bernstein Holmes Community Partnerships Presentation pdf

This presentation will focus on the importance of developing, maintaining, and strengthening relationships with key community partners, specifically in regards to the different aspects of school safety. Participants will hear how a partnership between a a small, urban school district and a school-based community health clinic was created and is maintained to support the students and families within this community, as well as partner with the schools to create a multi-disciplinary, multi-faceted approach to meeting the student's needs and creating a network around students who are more at-risk in regards to safety. Challenges, solutions, and lessons-learned will be shared, as well as an overview of logistics and key-considerations for the planning phases of future partnerships.

Session Objectives:

High-leverage opportunities and important partnerships
Best practices and legal considerations for effective collaboration
Important considerations during the planning and implementation phase

Speakers

Lea Bernstein-Holmes

Consultant, Self-Employed

Alexis Barrere

Clinical Lead, CU Youth Health Clinic- Sheridan Campus

Wednesday September 18, 2024 11:15am - 12:25pm MDT
Academy

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), District Administration, District Wellness Coordinators, Community-based Partners
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Family School and Community Partnerships

11:15am MDT

Mental Health Begins Before Kindergarten: Implications for prevention and early intervention

Wednesday September 18, 2024 11:15am - 12:25pm MDT

When working in K-12 education we don’t always consider mental health prior to kindergarten. Yet, mental health begins at birth and early childhood mental health, both challenges and positive indicators, have effects throughout childhood and the lifespan. Considering the importance of mental health in early childhood and the impact of early childhood mental health on prevention and early intervention services is essential. This session will talk about the implications of young children’s mental health, both within early childhood and beyond. Specifically, this session will explore the connection between early childhood mental health and effective early intervention at all ages.

Session Objectives:

1. Participants will become familiar with data related to mental health in early childhood and its implications.
2. Participants will consider how educational environments, both ECE and K-12, can support young children’s mental health.

Speakers

Tanae Dabney

School Psychology Intern, Aurora Public Schools

Rachel Stein

Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Colorado Denver

Rachel Stein, Ph.D., LP, NCSP is a clinical assistant professor in the School Psychology program in the School of Education and Human Development at the University of Colorado Denver. Prior to her current role Dr. Stein worked as a Harris Postdoctoral Fellow in Infant and Early Childhood... Read More →

Neena Khindria

Graduate Student, University of Colorado Denver

Rachel Stein CDE Presentation Fall 2024 Sep 9, 2024 pptx

Wednesday September 18, 2024 11:15am - 12:25pm MDT
Cripple Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Special Educaton Providers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary
Breakout Strand Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing

1:35pm MDT

ADHD: Why We Feel Like We Don't Belong and How You Can Help Us

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT

Palmer

Jeff Brown ADHD Why we feel like we don't belong and how you can help us pdf

ADHD kids and adults usually have a deep sense of self hatred. Everyone around them from teachers to parents to friends seem to point out their weaknesses in frustration, anger, and sometimes while making fun of them. There are so many ADHD kids that don't feel they belong. This extends to ADHD Teachers and other staff. Being able to see ADHD kids and adults for who they are and what they can add to the school can increase school belongingness in immeasurable ways. We will be talking about ways to support these wonderful people.

Session Objectives:

1) Understanding what happens inside the mind of ADHDers
2) Understanding ways to support them and help them feel included
3) Understanding ways to help staff support these kids and work with these adults

Speakers

Jeff Brown

Family Studies and Child Devleopment Teacher, Rampart High School

I've taught High school Relationships, Child Development, and Living Skills for 25 years. I'm also AuDHD meaning I'm Autistic and ADHDer.I do Professional Development Classes on Autism and ADHD, Child and Adolescent Development,The Power of Relationships in TeachingSee my website... Read More →

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT
Palmer

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, Teachers, Special Educaton Providers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Engagement and Connectedness, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety, Student Centered Discipline/Restorative Practices

1:35pm MDT

Attention on Intention: Vision Boarding–identify your vision and give it clarity

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT

Academy

Kristi Elliot Attention on Intention Vision Boarding pdf

How do you want your life to look? Manifestation is not about just attracting “things” into your life but rather empowering yourself to live your best life. A vision board can illustrate the person you truly want to become. In this session, we will discuss how vision boarding can support student and employee wellness and then provide time for you to start creating your own individual or team vision board that represents what you hope to achieve this school year. Supplies will be provided. If you have your own supplies or magazines, please bring those, too.

Session Objectives:

(1) Explain what manifesting a vision is and the basic neuroscience behind the effectiveness of vision boards.
(2) Identify types of vision boards and when vision boarding may be a useful intervention for student and employee wellbeing.
(3) Create a situational vision board that displays your goals for the new school year.

Speakers

Kristi Elliott

Health Education Services Supervisor, Colorado Department of Education

Kristi Elliott joined CDE in 2017. Prior to coming to CDE, she completed 17 school years at Canon City Schools in multiple roles. Her final position in the district was Regional Wellness Coordinator for Fremont Regional Health & Wellness, serving RE-1, RE-2, and RE-3 School Districts... Read More →

Jacklyn Thompson

Healthy Schools Program Manager, Colorado Department of Education

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT
Academy

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness

1:35pm MDT

Growing People Growing Plants: Land-based learning as a method for connecting academic, emotional, and social development.

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT

Fountain Creek

Flying Pig Farm (FPF) provides a community learning space in which people can reclaim their relationship with food and land. We take a multi-faceted, community-based approach to teaching young people a sense of belonging to their community, their environment, and soil-based food cultivation. Through our partnership with MSSD14, we've been able to serve over 1200 students a year with academically integrated farm activities.

Session Objectives:

1. Provide a working model for community collaboration
2. Demonstrate the success and joy of land-based learning
3. Coach participants on how to integrate our methods at their schools

Speakers

Barak Ben-Amots

Director, Flying Pig Farm

FPF Landscape of Wellbeing Presentation (2).pptx pdf

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT
Fountain Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators, Community-based Partners, Special Educaton Providers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Engagement and Connectedness, Family School and Community Partnerships, Community Schools and Out of School Time, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing

1:35pm MDT

Increasing Access to Education: Empowering Staff and Supporting Students through The Neurosequential Model©

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT

In a post-Covid setting and a new normal for education, there is a need for training and capacity building that is responsive to staff and provides whole-child support. A critical aspect of this work is to equip staff with an understanding of how the brain and body respond to stress and change, and to create systems that support staff, reduce punitive practices and promote student learning, healing and skill development. In this session, the presenters will share their expertise in training and implementation of The Neurosequential Model in Education© (NME) which provides foundational content and a lens that positively impacts school culture, improves access to education and better prepares educators to meet students with developmentally and biologically appropriate tools and practices.

Participants will:

- leave with an awareness of how stress impacts the health, function, memory, performance and perspective of staff and students - and how we can create and foster environments in which stress is negated and buffered through practices and systems that are biologically and developmentally matched to promote regulation and skill building.

- be exposed to systems and strategies that have been used by educators across the world in implementing the Neurosequential Model in Education© (NME) at the school and classroom level.

- understand outcomes and challenges associated with implementation of the NME© and how the NME© is foundational to uptake of the majority of school initiatives (e.g., SEL, restorative justice, curricula, MTSS, PBIS, lesson planning and coaching).

Speakers

Katie Lohmiller

Director of Programming and Evaluation, Educational Access Group and Program Coordinator, Educational Access Group & The Neurosequential Network

Halley Gruber

Educational Access Group & The Neurosequential Network, Director of On-site and Educational Support, Educational Access Group and Program Coordinator

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT
Cripple Creek

1:35pm MDT

The TLCC and Me! Using TLCC Results to Drive Change

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT

Douglas

Dive into the statewide Teaching and Learning Conditions Colorado survey data and spend time collaborating on next steps for your work. Learn about statewide trends, ways to approach survey usage, and how to move from results into action. The survey includes a number of questions on student and staff wellbeing, so there are many opportunities to connect to state, district, and local results.

Session Objectives:

How to use perception data in continuous improvement.
How to use data to drive decisions.
How to compare and leverage state, district, and local results.

Speakers

Lisa Steffen

Colorado Department of Education

Greg Nusz, PhD

Program Evaluator, Colorado Department of Education

Greg Nusz, PhD is the Program Evaluation and Data Manager for the School Quality and Supports Division at CDE. His work focuses on using program evaluation strategies to inform continuous improvement of state-, district-, and school-level supports, with a particular concentration... Read More →

Lisa Steffen TLCC 2024 Landscape Presentation .pptx pdf

Wednesday September 18, 2024 1:35pm - 2:45pm MDT
Douglas

3:00pm MDT

Adapting to Thrive: Cultivating Resilience and Agency in Students and Staff

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Royal Gorge

Kelli Smith Why Schools Must Evolve What the Research Says and What We Can Do Kelli Smith pdf

This session lays a foundation for educators on why we need to shift our practice to meet the needs of today's students. Using science, participants will understand why this shift needs to happen to regulate and re engage our students. Participants will be armed with research to shift your most vocal staff that are resistent to change by clearly showing why we need to shift our beliefs about how kids learn and behave. You will walk away with ready to implement evidence based universal structures and supports to build agency in our students and staff, resulting in increased job satisfaction and increased learning and growth in our students.

Session Objectives:

Understand, learn and apply supportive environments in your school or classroom to re-engage and regulate students
Learn what positive developmental relationships are and why they are an essential foundation to regulate, engage and build agency in students
Understand how students developmentally learn mindsets, behaviors and skills and what you can do universally to identify lagging skills and implemented universal and targeted interventions so students are able to learn at high levels.

Speakers

Dr. Kelli Smith

Director of Health, Wellness and Prevention, Douglas County School District

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Royal Gorge

Intended Audience District Administration, District Wellness Coordinators, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Teachers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, High School, Middle School
Breakout Strand Engagement and Connectedness, Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, School Climate/Safety

3:00pm MDT

Beyond Punishment: Shaping Success and Culture with Restorative Discipline

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Douglas

Jennifer Gallegos Beyond Punishment Shaping Success and Culture with Restorative Discipline FINAL 9.13.24 (1) pptx

Join us for 'Beyond Punishment: Shaping Success and Culture with Restorative Discipline,' a presentation that redefines disciplinary approaches in educational settings. Participants will learn best practices for restorative discipline and discover the power of data from discipline profile reports to enhance school climate and discipline practices. We will also explore the foundational philosophies behind a restorative mindset, providing attendees with the best practices needed to foster a supportive and progressive educational environment.

Session Objectives:

Understand the Use of Data in Discipline: Participants will learn about the data available within profile reports and explore ways to use this data to make informed decisions that improve climate and discipline practices.
Learn Best Practices for Restorative Discipline:
Acquire knowledge on the best practices in restorative discipline to effectively implement these strategies and enhance the overall educational environment without direct comparisons to punitive methods.

Speakers

Jewel Sale

Jen Gallegos

Dropout Prevention Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Douglas

Intended Audience Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Engagement and Connectedness, School Climate/Safety, Student Centered Discipline/Restorative Practices

3:00pm MDT

Comparing IEPs, 504s, and Health Plans Using a "Health Condition" Lens

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Seven Falls

Comparing IEP, 504, IHP Plans Chronic Conditions Lens Sept 2024 pdf

It’s estimated that 40% of school-aged children and adolescents in the U.S. have at least one chronic health condition, and research shows that children with chronic health conditions are more likely to be absent from school, putting them at risk for poor academic achievement. With adequate support, students with chronic conditions can thrive!

This session will compare the purpose, regulation, and eligibility for IEPs, 504s, and health plans, using chronic condition examples. Participants will also explore new resources from the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights on students with disabilities and related inequities.

Participants will be able to:
• Explain the purpose of an IEP, 504, and Individual Health Plan
• Discuss three differences between these three plans
• Describe how each plan can support student success

Speakers

Sarah Blumenthal

Director of School Health Services Office, Colorado Department of Education

ocr factsheet asthma 202402 pdf

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Pre Test Post Test docx

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Seven Falls

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing

3:00pm MDT

Finding Your Voice and Channeling Emotions Through Living Poetry

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Fountain Creek

Poetry is more than the literary design to comply to a set of rules or poetic styles. It is undeniably the outpouring of the individual. When participants of poetry have the opportunity to elevate their voice, inevitably there is a stronger sense of self. In addition, communication skills increase allowing the participant of poetry to experience higher levels of positive social interactions. There is a significant amount of data/research that highlights the benefits/positive impact of SEL within poetry. If this is the case, we should see evidence of intentional poetry throughout schools. This presentation combines various poetic styles and music activities to promote cultivate equity, SEL, culturally responsive practices and leadership skills.

Session Objectives:

The participant will learn poetry strategies to promote SEL.
The participant will write a poem implementing poetic techniques.
The participant will review research on SEL within poetry and develop an action plan to best support students' interests/areas of support.

Speakers

Roy Bailey

Music Instructional Curriculum Specialist, Denver Public Schools

Roy Bailey CDE Presentation2 Roy Bailey.pptx pdf

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Fountain Creek

Intended Audience Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators, Special Educaton Providers
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Engagement and Connectedness, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety, Student Centered Discipline/Restorative Practices

3:00pm MDT

Humanistic Leadership: Inspiring Team Commitment and Productivity Through Co-Creation

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Ballroom

Rebecca Knighton Fall Conference, Humanistic Leadership pdf

Are you frustrated with the lack of buy-in or positive momentum with your teams or initiatives? This session will focus on how building high quality, humanistic, team-driven shared leadership leads to the co-creation of effective systems and increased motivation. We will explore how to engage a diverse team of people, meet them where they are at, and move towards a common goal. In this session, you will learn how to use authentic collaboration and constant reflection to create desired outcomes, develop collective leadership capacity, inspire shared ownership, and increase your ability to address conflicts or challenges as a unified team.

Session Objectives:

Participants will understand foundational elements of authentic collaboration to increase productive co-creation
Participants will learn how to build collective efficacy, empowering teams to overcome barriers and challenges
Participants will explore how emphasizing humanistic relationships increases buy-in, motivation, and productivity

Speakers

Rebecca Knighton

COMTSS Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Rebecca Knighton is an MTSS Specialist with the Colorado Department of Education. She has a background in middle school general education behavior intervention, gifted education, and systems-level change. She has led professional development at the school, district, and state levels... Read More →

Simone Richardson

Elementary Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Garfield RE-2

Jacob Pingel

Secondary Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, Garfield Re2 School District

Evan Daldegan

Multi‑Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Ballroom

Intended Audience Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), District Wellness Coordinators, Community-based Partners
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Team/Shared Leadership/Effective Systems

3:00pm MDT

Naloxone Administration in Schools – Train-the-Trainer Program for school nurses, staff, and emergency response teams

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

2024.8.CDE Fall The Landscape Conference.Naloxone Administration in Schools.JMackender pdf

This presentation will include an Opioid Overdose Prevention and Response Training which includes understanding the opioid crisis; youth impact; what are opioids; harm reduction; and reversing an opioid overdose with Naloxone.

Participants will be provided with training slides and facilitator guide, along with other resources, to conduct a training at their school.

1. An understanding of the opioid public health crisis/youth impact
2. Trained in Opioid Overdose Prevention and Response, including Naloxone administration
3. Equipped with resources to help implement an opioid overdose prevention and response training at their school

Speakers

Jennifer Mackender

External Relations Strategist, Colorado Consortium for Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention

Jordan Goto

Health and Wellness Coordinator, Boulder Valley School District

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Cripple Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Family School and Community Partnerships, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety

3:00pm MDT

SPOTLIGHT on Success: Empowering Remote Rural Regions with COMTSS Implementation

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT

Academy

Sandra Gavin SPOTLIGHT on Success Empowering Remote Rural Regions with COMTSS Implementation.pptx pdf

This session caters to administrators, educators, mental health providers, and community-based organizations eager to cultivate collaboration across rural regions. Embracing a regional approach significantly enhances collective impact, fosters responsive systems, and ensures sustained implementation of initiatives like Colorado Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports. Amid ongoing uncertainties and educator turnover, continuous capacity building is pivotal for effective implementation. The panel will spotlight the formation of a Regional Implementation Team, comprising diverse voices from CDE offices, educators, community-based organizations, and Adams State University. Its goal: fortify equity for vulnerable youth, offer high-quality professional development, and enhance staff well-being. Gain firsthand insights from small rural districts on implementing COMTSS alongside community members, fostering impactful outcomes, and boosting equity for historically marginalized communities in rural areas.

Session Objectives:

1. Participants will grasp the importance of collaboration among administrators, educators, mental health providers, and community-based organizations across the region to improve educational outcomes.

2. Participants will learn how to enhance equity for vulnerable youth by establishing a Regional Implementation Team comprising diverse voices from CDE offices, educators, community-based organizations, and Adams State University.

3. Participants will comprehend how a regional implementation team offers professional development opportunities to enhance staff skills and well-being, ensuring the effective implementation of initiatives like COMTSS.

Speakers

Katrina Ruggles

Counselor/Grant Coordinator, Center Consolidated Schools, 26JT

Dr. Katrina Caldon-Ruggles, MA, LPC, is a counselor and district MTSS coordinator in the Center Consolidated School District in the town of Center in the San Luis Valley in southern Colorado. Katrina has been coordinating and providing services focused on the overall health and wellness... Read More →

Geneva Mixon

Mountain Valley School District

Adams State University

My name is Dr. Sandra Gavin (she/her), and I am an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education at Adams State University, a Licensed Professional Counselor, and a National Certified Counselor. I am the new San Luis Valley Regional Coordinator supporting COMTSS work there. My scholarly... Read More →

Wednesday September 18, 2024 3:00pm - 4:10pm MDT
Academy

9:30am MDT

Be Well in Rural Colorado

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT

Palmer

Using the PERMA model from the Center for Rural School Health & Education to define wellbeing as Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment, we will look deeper into the ways wellbeing can be supported throughout Rural Communities as it relates to staff, families, and student experiences.

Session Objectives:

Connect with other rural districts to provide ongoing support
Examine and review supportive structures of building relationships in your rural community
Discover new ways empower students in their own wellbeing

Speakers

Jordan Cobb

School Counselor, Moffat 2

Alex Moore-Guenther

School Counselor, Moffat 2

Jordan Cobb Rural Landscapes 2024 Jordan Cobb pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT
Palmer

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators, Special Educaton Providers, Community-based Partners
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Engagement and Connectedness, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness, School Climate/Safety

9:30am MDT

Blueprints for Wellness: Create Routines to Become the Best Version of You!

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT

Seven Falls

CharLynn Handout 1 of 3 Reflection Habit Formulas Worksheet pdf

Ever set a wellness goal only to find yourself struggling to make progress? You’re not alone! Maybe your wellness blueprint is lacking scale, lines, views, or measurements for you to be successful. Together let's establish a powerful wellness blueprint by learning how the components of physical and mental wellness are the foundation for well-being. Learn to develop routines that are scaled, lined, viewed, and measured, that when implemented overtime help you to become the Best Version of You!!!

Session Objectives:

Explore the components of physical and mental wellness and their role in establishing overall well-being.
Understand how gradual, consistent improvement can enhance wellness over time.
Learn effective strategies to build incremental shifts in habits for sustainable wellness routines.

Speakers

CharLynn Stegman

Health and Wellness Specialist, District 49

CharLynn Handout 2 of 3 Reflection Mental Wellness Worksheet pdf

CharLynn handout 3 of 3 Reflection Physical Wellness Worksheet (1) pdf

CharLynn Stegman Blueprints for Wellness Create Routines to Become the Best Version of You! pptx

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT
Seven Falls

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Educator Wellness

9:30am MDT

Cultivating Staff Wellness Through Community Collaborations

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT

Louis Morphew and Jessica Martinez, Cultivating Staff Wellness Through Community Collaborations pdf

Discover a variety of opportunities in your community to expand the wellness programming for your staff, students, and families. Louie and Jess will share examples on partnering with businesses for free or minimal cost that can impact the physical, social, mental and nutritional health of your school community.

Session Objectives:

Participants will leave with new ideas for partnership for school and/or district wellness programming.
Participants will be able to identify new ideas for partnership for staff, student, and family wellness programming.
Participants will be able to identify at least one program or event they can implement/promote for free or minimal cost.

Speakers

Louie Morphew

Wellness Coordinator, Aurora Public Schools

Jessica Martinez

Wellness Coordinator, Aurora Public Schools

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT
Cripple Creek

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Family School and Community Partnerships, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness

9:30am MDT

Office of School Safety Overview and Updates

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT

Pikes Peak

Kati Garner Office of School Safety Overview and Updates CDPS pptx

Educators know that safe learning environments lead to higher student outcomes. However, with the ever changing field of school safety it can be hard to keep up with best practices and legislation. This session will help attendees gain a better understanding of the Office of School Safety and the resources available throughout the state. We will also discuss recent legislation and grant opportunities available to schools.

Session Objectives:

1. Participants will have a better understanding of the Office of School Safety and the resources available.
2. Participants will gain knowledge around recent school safety legislation
3. Participants will gain knowledge around school safety grants and events available to them

Speakers

Kati Garner

Crisis Unit Manager, Colorado Office of School Safety

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT
Pikes Peak

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety

9:30am MDT

SEL When You Can’t Say SEL

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT

El Paso

Discussing Social Emotional Learning (SEL) has encountered various challenges across Colorado and throughout the United States. Unfortunately, it has been subject to misconceptions, including confusion with Critical Race Theory and unfounded associations with certain agendas (including those who advocate for LGBTQ+ rights). Addressing SEL has thus become increasingly complex. However, we aim to offer adaptable approaches endorsed by statewide organizations, tailored to your school community's values.

Session Objectives:

Participants will receive practical tools to navigate these discussions effectively
Participants will learn different options when addressing the terms of Social Emotional Learning programming.
Participants will learn techniques to calm high conflict conversations around Social Emotional Learning.

Speakers

Susan Davis

SEL Coordinator, St. Vrain Valley School District

Adilene Marquez

Inspire Youth Connections Program Specialist, Boulder County Public Health

Susan Davis SEL when you can't say SEL pdf

Thursday September 19, 2024 9:30am - 10:40am MDT
El Paso

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Equity and Diversity, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, School Climate/Safety

10:55am MDT

Neuroscience and your school counseling program and how to implement district wide

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT

Academy

Sadie Miller Neuroscience and Your School Counseling Program and How to Implement District Wide pdf

In this session, participants will learn how to integrate the latest in neuroscience research from Dr. Lori Desautels’ into their school counseling program. Participants will engage in different techniques that can help shift the energy in their classrooms and counseling sessions, as well as walking away with a list of over 100 three to five minute activities. This session will also describe how the Cripple Creek Victor School District utilizes their district level neuroscience educator, and the grants surrounding that position. This session will have a presentation piece as well as hands-on activities to get participants engaged with neuroscience.

Session Objectives:

1. Objective One: Participants will have an understanding of their own brain and nervous system states.
2. Objective Two: Participants will walk away with neuroscience strategies and mindfulness strategies to implement immediately.
3. Objective Three: Participants will understand the importance of coregulation, and strategies around coregulation.

Speakers

Sadie Miller

6-12 School Counselor, Cripple Creek-Victor RE-1

Amy Christison

District Neuroeducator, Cripple Creek-Victor RE-1

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT
Academy

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators, Community-based Partners
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness

10:55am MDT

Not Just Reading and Writing: Making the Case for Mental Health Literacy

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT

Royal Gorge

Amy Plog Not Just Reading and Writing Making the Case for Mental Health Literacy pdf

Increasing mental health concerns among young people are reflected nationally in the recent US Surgeon General’s Advisory on Student Mental Health and locally in Healthy Kids Colorado data. Effectively addressing these concerns will require focus not only on mental health treatment, but also prevention efforts. This presentation will make the case for the importance of mental health literacy education to promote positive mental health. Core components of mental health literacy will be delineated as will a variety of reasons why this work in schools is critical. Finally, resources will be shared along with discussion of how to use them intentionally.

Session Objectives:

Participants will be able to:
(1) describe the four core components of mental health literacy
(2) give examples of reasons why mental health literacy is important in schools
(3) locate mental health literacy resources and recognize how to use them intentionally

Speakers

Michelle Malvey

Behavioral Health Training Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Michelle Malvey is a Behavioral Health Training Specialist in the Heath Education Unit at CDE. She is a former principal, district MTSS Coordinator, school psychologist and teacher with a passion for making sure everyone in the school environment gets what they need on a daily... Read More →

Amy Plog

Evaluation and Research Principal Consultant, Colorado Department of Education

Amy Plog joined CDE in December 2021 and is a Research and Evaluation Consultant with the Health Education Services Office. Prior to working at CDE, she spent over 20 years in the Cherry Creek School District in a research and data role supporting the district mental health team and... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT
Royal Gorge

Intended Audience School Based Health Professionals (RNs/Counselors/Social Workers/Psychologists/etc.), Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Teachers, District Wellness Coordinators
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing, Educator Wellness

10:55am MDT

Serving Colorado's Most Vulnerable Populations Through Family, School, Community Partnership Initiatives

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT

Douglas

Paula Gumina Serving Colorado's Most Vulnerable Populations Through FSCP Initiatives FALL 2024 Template PPT for Breakout Presen pdf

Regional Collaborative Conversations, Family Resource Centers, and the community schools strategy are impactful family, school, and community partnership initiatives that are playing a critical role in addressing the needs of Colorado’s most vulnerable youth. This presentation will provide an overview of multiple entry-points to serving your most vulnerable populations and ways that the Colorado Department of Education can support local implementation. This session will highlight different approaches to effective family engagement across Colorado and participants will identify strategies that are transferable to their local context and the unique populations that they serve.

Session Objectives:

Learn about the Colorado Department of Education’s work supporting Regional Collaborative Conversations and Transformational Partnerships, Family Resource Centers, and community schools at the local level.
Consider elements of family, school, and community partnership success stories of addressing the needs of the most vulnerable youth and families in areas of Colorado with high concentrations of poverty and how it might look in your community.
Discuss how to support the community. family, school, and community partnership initiatives in your community and identify opportunities for growth.

Speakers

Shannon Allen

OST Programs Specialist, Colorado Department of Education

Shannon Allen serves on the office of Student Support team and CDE and is CDE's point of contact for all questions and ideas related to the community schools strategy in Colorado. Feel free to reach out to Shannon about your interest in the community schools strategy, out-of-school... Read More →

Paula Gumina

State Coordinator for the Education of Homeless Children & Youth, Colorado Department of Education

Paula Gumina serves as the State Coordinator for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth Program at the Colorado Department of Education. She brings with her over fifteen years serving the state of Colorado in implementing cross agency projects and initiatives. She holds a... Read More →

Jes Stroope

District and Community Supports Manager, Colorado Department of Education

Jes Stroope, Ph.D., is the District and Community Supports Manager in the Office of Family, School, and Community Partnerships (FSCP) at the Colorado Department of Education. Jes received her doctorate from the Child, Family, and School Psychology program at the University of Denver... Read More →

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT
Douglas

Intended Audience Principals or other Building Leaders, District Administration, Other building Level Support Staff (MTSS etc.), Community-based Partners
Grade Level Early Childhood, Elementary, Middle School, High School, Other (staff/district/family/community/etc.)
Breakout Strand Leadership-Wellbeing and Belonging, Engagement and Connectedness, Family School and Community Partnerships, Community Schools and Out of School Time, Team/Shared Leadership/Effective Systems, Physical/Mental/Social/Emotional Wellbeing

10:55am MDT

The Elephant's Gift: Mindfulness for PK-2nd

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT

Join us for a fantastical journey in our breakout session for early education teachers! Discover ideas for teaching social-emotional learning for children (Pre-k - 2nd) from The Elephant’s Gift Program, based on the award-winning children’s book by Amira Valle. Presented by Amira Valle and Lourdes Buck, award-winning author of Sue’s Sky's, this session includes an activity from The Elephant’s Gift Activity book and provides tools to take back to the classroom. Learn about additional training opportunities for more in-depth educational materials. Don't miss this enriching and engaging session! Educators will participate in a hands-on activities from The Elephant’s Gift Activity book, providing them with practical experience and resources to implement in their classrooms immediately.

The learning objectives are as follows:

1. Teaching Attentional Focus: Educators will learn a tool to help children develop attentional focus through an engaging activity and structured routines, enhancing their ability to concentrate and learn effectively.
2. Promoting Emotional Regulation: Participants will learn tools and techniques to support children in recognizing, understanding, and managing their emotions, fostering a more balanced and positive emotional state.
3. Cultivating Kindness: Educators will explore methods to instill kindness and empathy in children, encouraging compassionate interactions and creating a nurturing classroom environment.

Speakers

Thursday September 19, 2024 10:55am - 12:05pm MDT
Cripple Creek