This interactive workshop explores the science of brain development and how early experiences shape learning, behavior, and lifelong outcomes. Participants will learn how the brain builds itself over time, the impact of stress and trauma, and practical strategies to support cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Educators and caregivers will leave with research-based insights and actionable tools to create learning environments that foster resilience, curiosity, and thriving in every child.
SEL + Family Education and Engagement Specialist, Regional Office of Education #47
Grace Heimerdinger-Baake is the SEL & Family Education and Engagement Specialist for the Regional Office of Education #47. She brings more than 13 years of experience as an educator, crisis counselor, and advocate supporting children, families, and communities. Grace specializes in... Read More →
This is not your usual yoga class. Your mind, spirit, and body will leave refreshed and with tools that will help you to cope with today's stress and busy lifestyles.
Patricia Kessinger is the owner and creator of Living Energy Inc., a total person concept of Mind, Spirit, and Body. She is an experienced personal trainer and fitness coach who has dedicated over twenty years to teaching health, wellness, and fitness across multiple states. As a... Read More →
This dynamic training explores practical, real-world strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in today’s school environments. Participants will gain ready-to-use tools and examples they can implement immediately in their classrooms. The session also examines how stress and trauma impact the brain and body, helping educators better understand and respond to the root causes of difficult behaviors while fostering a more supportive learning environment.
Dean of Students, Northwest Academy/NWSE Cooperative
I have been a Special Educator for 30 years with a strong emphasis in therapeutic intervention strategies and supports for behavioral needs in the classroom environment.
This session focuses on trauma-responsive and strengths-based approaches to supporting emotional regulation, executive functioning, and mental health in students receiving special education services. Participants will explore how trauma, stress, and neurodiversity impact behavior and learning, and learn practical strategies to promote self-regulation, resilience, and positive behavioral supports. The session emphasizes proactive, inclusive practices that build on student strengths, foster emotional safety, and support well-being across school settings.
This is not your usual yoga class. Your mind, spirit, and body will leave refreshed and with tools that will help you to cope with today's stress and busy lifestyles.
Patricia Kessinger is the owner and creator of Living Energy Inc., a total person concept of Mind, Spirit, and Body. She is an experienced personal trainer and fitness coach who has dedicated over twenty years to teaching health, wellness, and fitness across multiple states. As a... Read More →
Today’s students face rising anxiety and disconnection, yet they also hold incredible potential. Drawing on The Anxious Generation, The Amazing Generation, and Let Grow, this session explores how schools can balance connection and independence to support student well-being. Participants will learn relationship-centered, SEL-aligned strategies that build resilience, confidence, and essential life skills while still maintaining strong, supportive relationships.
SEL + Family Education and Engagement Specialist, Regional Office of Education #47
Grace Heimerdinger-Baake is the SEL & Family Education and Engagement Specialist for the Regional Office of Education #47. She brings more than 13 years of experience as an educator, crisis counselor, and advocate supporting children, families, and communities. Grace specializes in... Read More →
This dynamic training explores practical, real-world strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in today’s school environments. Participants will gain ready-to-use tools and examples they can implement immediately in their classrooms. The session also examines how stress and trauma impact the brain and body, helping educators better understand and respond to the root causes of difficult behaviors while fostering a more supportive learning environment.
Dean of Students, Northwest Academy/NWSE Cooperative
I have been a Special Educator for 30 years with a strong emphasis in therapeutic intervention strategies and supports for behavioral needs in the classroom environment.
Explore how SEL practices can transform student behavior. Participants will learn how to identify the “why” behind behaviors and use practical, inclusive strategies to support all learners. This session will also highlight how MTSS frameworks can be used to provide tiered supports for behavior and SEL across all students.
Shauna Dinges has been in education for over 20 years. She started her teaching career by teaching Business Math and Accounting classes at the community college level. Because she wanted to be a more positive influence on younger students, Shauna decided that she could make a significant... Read More →
In this breakout session, participants will explore strategies from The Co-Regulated Classroom to support both student well-being and educator balance. You’ll learn practical “chill skills” to manage stress, respond to student dysregulation, and create calmer, more connected classrooms. Walk away with actionable tools you can use immediately and share with colleagues to make every classroom a "cool" classroom.
Hello everyone! I’m Jennifer Slater, former 1st grade teacher at Jones-Farrar, an IB World School of 11 years (my 1st dream job, loved it, but my family needed me more present). Now, I am enjoying my next dream job of being Empire's PK-5th grade art teacher! I grew up in the area... Read More →
In my 15+ years of teaching experience in a variety of settings—public, private, and international schools—I’ve had the privilege of working with a diverse group of amazing students and teachers. I’ve worked as an elementary teacher and am currently serving as an instructional... Read More →
This interactive, escape room-themed session tackles common challenges in family-school partnerships. As participants solve "clues," they'll unlock practical, adaptable tools that support students' social-emotional and academic growth both in the classroom and at home.
SEL + Family Education and Engagement Specialist, Regional Office of Education #47
Grace Heimerdinger-Baake is the SEL & Family Education and Engagement Specialist for the Regional Office of Education #47. She brings more than 13 years of experience as an educator, crisis counselor, and advocate supporting children, families, and communities. Grace specializes in... Read More →
Need a brain break? Want to learn how to take a bit of fluff and make a cool doodad, ornament, or funky thing for your desk? Needle felting is an easy, low risk creative way to have some fun and make something. Give it a try!
This dynamic training explores practical, real-world strategies for addressing challenging behaviors in today’s school environments. Participants will gain ready-to-use tools and examples they can implement immediately in their classrooms. The session also examines how stress and trauma impact the brain and body, helping educators better understand and respond to the root causes of difficult behaviors while fostering a more supportive learning environment.
Dean of Students, Northwest Academy/NWSE Cooperative
I have been a Special Educator for 30 years with a strong emphasis in therapeutic intervention strategies and supports for behavioral needs in the classroom environment.
Today’s students bring unique strengths and challenges to the classroom. This session explores practical strategies to increase engagement, reduce anxiety, and support learning through relationships, structure, and relevant instruction that meets the needs of Gen Z learners.
Shauna Dinges has been in education for over 20 years. She started her teaching career by teaching Business Math and Accounting classes at the community college level. Because she wanted to be a more positive influence on younger students, Shauna decided that she could make a significant... Read More →
