2023 Building the Heart of Successful Schools Conference Program : simplebooklet.com

Welcome to the Building the Heart of Successful Schools Conference! I know you are excited for this time to learn and connect, and I am so grateful for your dedication to the success of our schools, all grounded in the health and wellness of our students and educators. I am proud to know DPI staff and the WISH Center are making this conference possible, and proud to see so many educators from acrossWisconsin attending today. Your work and dedication give mehope. I truly believe that hope can power our schools,schools can power our communities, and we can all focus onpreparing the next generation for their future, and not ourpast. That is how we build a collective future together. Thank you for being a part of building the heart ofWisconsin’s schools and Wisconsin’s future.Dr. Jill UnderlyWisconsin State Superintendent of Public InstructionBHSS 2023WELCOMEW E L C O M E M E S S A G E F R O MS T A T E S U P E R I N T E N D E N TD R . J I L L U N D E R L YDr. Jill Underly1

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2 0 2 3 B U I L D I N G T H E H E A R T O F S U C C E S S F U L S C H O O L S C O N F E R E N C EPRE-CONFERENCE AGENDAWEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6,2023R E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N S7:30AM-3:30PMOnsite Registration/Check In OpenSandstone Corridor7:30AM-8:30AMBreakfastSandstone 278:30AM-11:30AMPre-Conference A: Strategiesto Support Youth Strugglingwith Stress and Anxiety- AMulti-Tiered ApproachSandstone 14568:30AM-11:30AMPre-Conference B: BehaviorThreat Assessment andManagement, A PowerfulPreventative Opportunity!Sandstone 89311:30AM-12:30PMLunchSandstone 2712:30PM-3:30PMPre-Conference C: How to UseRestorative Practices toSupport the Mental HealthNeeds of Staff and StudentsSandstone 145612:30PM-3:30PMPre-Conference D: Calling AllEducators to Choose BoldnessSandstone 89312:30PM-3:30PMPre-Conference E: BuildingYour School CommunityCollaboration: Partnerships,Funding and SustainabilityTundra ABC4:30PM-6:00PMState Superintendent’s AdvisoryCouncil for Alcohol and OtherDrug Abuse (AODA) WinterMeetingTundra DEF2

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2 0 2 3 B U I L D I N G T H E H E A R T O F S U C C E S S F U L S C H O O L S C O N F E R E N C ECONFERENCE AGENDATHURSDAY, DECEMBER 7,2023S E L E C T S E S S I O N S W I L L B E R E C O R D E D | H I G H L I G H T E D I N G R A Y O N T H E A G E N D A A C C E S S T O R E C O R D I N G S W I L L B E A V A I L A B L E T O A L L C O N F E R E N C E R E G I S T R A N T S 1 W E E K A F T E R T H E C O N F E R E N C E . 8:00AM Onsite Registration Open Sandstone Corridor8:00AM-9:00AM Breakfast Sandstone Ballroom9:00AM Welcome Sandstone Ballroom9:15AM-10:30AM Keynote: Equity in Action | Derek Francis Sandstone Ballroom10:30AM Break10:45AM-11:45AM Sectionals - A1A. From Prevention to Disclosure: School Professionals Vital Role in Addressing Child Maltreatment2A. AODA Policy, Protocol & Process3A. Empowering Student Success: Integrating Family Assistance & Mental Health Support Systems4A. Coaching for Success: Closing the Gap Between Social, Emotional & Behavioral PD & Classroom Implementation5A. BIPOC Educators’ Affinity SpaceTundra DEFTundra ABCWilderness 1 & 4Wilderness 2 & 5Glacier ABCD11:45AM Lunch Sandstone Ballroom1:45PM Break12:45PM-1:45PM Sectionals - B1B. Relationships Matter 2B. Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth3B. *Keynote Sectional* Creating a Welcoming & Inclusive School for All4B. Reflections of a Mental Health Coordinator5B. Trauma Support Team Model in SchoolsTundra DEFTundra ABCWilderness 1 & 4Wilderness 2 & 5Glacier ABCD2:00PM-3:00PMSectionals - C1C. Belonging Matters: Fostering Connection for Suicide Prevention2C. Empower Students: Teaching Students About Their Brain3C. Navigating Barriers to Mental Health Services4C. Tools to Begin Building a Comprehensive Mental Health System Within a Rural Community5C. A Comprehensive Approach for Bullying Prevention for LGBTQ+ YouthTundra DEFTundra ABCWilderness 1 & 4Wilderness 2 & 5Glacier ABCD3

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BHSS 2023PRECONFERENCESTRATEGIES TO SUPPORT YOUTHSTRUGGLING WITH STRESS ANDANXIETY - A MULTI-TIERED APPROACHMadeline Tolkan Conrad, LCSW has been the Associate Director of Student Services atCESA 9 since July 2019. In her role, she provides support for districts through coaching,professional development, and direct services for students, staff, and families in the area ofmental health, behavior, and SEL. Prior to CESA 9, Madeline was a school social worker ina Minneapolis suburb for 20+ years and worked as a Hospital Social Worker at Children’sMinnesota. She has her BSW from UW-Madison with a certificate in Women's Studies andher MSSW from UW-Madison with a focus on Social Work in Educational Settings.Angie Pliska is the Behavior & Mental Health Intervention Professional at CESA 9.OBJECTIVES:Understand the impact of anxiety on students, schools, and our communitiesIdentify strategies and interventions that support anxious students and their familiesStrengthen our multi-tiered and multidisciplinary approach to help schools model, teachand intervene with students struggling with anxiety-related issues through:focus on promoting overall mental health and well-being for all students byincorporating mental health education, mindfulness/relaxation techniques, a positiveschool climate, and SEL;targeted small group interventions, check-ins/monitoring, and support plans thatprovide necessary accommodations; andintensive interventions that include individual counseling, referral to externalservices, crisis management, FBA/BIPs, and planned transitions to/from community-based programming.P R E - C O N F E R E N C E AAccording to the 2021 WI Youth Risk Behavior Survey, more than one in two studentsreported anxiety (52.2%), which continues a long-term trend of increasing percentage ofstudents struggling. For this reason, school-based mental health professionals, school staff,and community providers are providing collaborative, supportive, and evidence-basedinterventions for students and their families. Utilizing interactive activities, participants willexplore student impact of anxiety and co-occurring challenges on students and identifystrategies using a multi-tiered approach to respond to these needs.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:WED, DEC 6 | 8:30AM-11:30AM | SANDSTONE 1456R E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N S5

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BHSS 2023PRECONFERENCEBEHAVIOR THREAT ASSESSMENT ANDMANAGEMENT, A POWERFULPREVENTATIVE OPPORTUNITYSusan Williams, Threat Assessment Coordinator | WI DOJ-Office of School Safety, beganat the Office of School Safety as a Threat Assessment Coordinator in July 2022. Prior tothis, she worked across all levels as a school psychologist for over 30 years. Susanreceived her Bachelor of Science and Master's degree in Education from the University ofWisconsin- La Crosse. In 2017, she became certified by the National Association of SchoolPsychologists (NASP) as a Trainer or Trainers for the PREPaRE 1 and PREPaRE 2 crisisprevention and response curriculum. She has been a leading member of both district andbuilding level crisis, safety, and threat assessment teams. Over the past 5 years, Susan hashad the privilege of training teams of administrators, pupil service teams and other schoolstaff from rural, suburban, and urban settings around school safety topics.OBJECTIVES:Gain an understanding of the purpose for creating the inquiry step/form.Learn about the underlying concepts of threat assessment used to develop the inquiryform.Acquire knowledge of how this step can be utilized by threat assessment teams.P R E - C O N F E R E N C E BBehavior Threat Assessment and Management is a problem-solving approach to violenceprevention that involves assessment and intervention with students who have demonstrateda concern for violence. School teams have an opportunity to provide proactive, effectivealternatives to reactive and exclusionary disciplinary practices. The focus of this session isto learn key aspects for creating school-based threat assessment teams and processes,how to determine the appropriate response to concerning behavior and provide potentialstrategies for threat management plans of support. Recent revisions to the WisconsinSchool Threat Assessment and Management forms, specifically an inquiry form, will bepresented and participants will learn how to incorporate this step into their threatassessment framework.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTER:WED, DEC 6 | 8:30AM-11:30AM | SANDSTONE 893R E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N S6

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BHSS 2023PRECONFERENCEHOW TO USE RESTORATIVE PRACTICESTO SUPPORT THE MENTAL HEALTHNEEDS OF STAFF AND STUDENTSSoumya Palreddy, PhD, is a National Trainer for Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) and a consultant to organizations and schools to centerequity and implement restorative justice. In addition to being a NationalTrainer for MHFA, Soumya was instrumental in the rewrite ofAdult MHFA 2.0, Youth MHFA 2.0, and the associated train-the-trainingprograms. Prior to consulting, Soumya served as an Associate Director atUniversity Health Services at UW- Madison.Ian Lowe is an educator with more than 15 years of classroom teaching experience. Ian mentors students and staff on how to center justice and equitythrough course and project design. As a school-based Restorative Justicepractitioner, he developed and sustained a partnership with the YWCA,weaving restorative practices into myriad aspects of the teaching and learningenvironment. Ian’s pedagogical approach in developing collaborative,interdisciplinary, and project-based work with students was captured inWisconsin Public Radio’s Classroom Frequency, which aired in June 2019 andwas awarded a regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Education.OBJECTIVES:Identify how Restorative Practices are inextricably linked with equity and mental health.Recognize where Restorative Practices are situated within Wisconsin’s School MentalHealth Framework (i.e., mental health continuum of supports, collaboration).Differentiate between types of Restorative Practices and learn how each can be used tosupport the mental health needs of students and the school community.Explain how Restorative Practices can be used to support the mental health needs ofstaff.P R E - C O N F E R E N C E CIn order for schools to cultivate equitable learning environments that promote healing,restorative justice practices must be embedded across mental health supports. Thisintersection creates a meaningful shift in school culture where wellbeing, equity, andrelationships are prioritized.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:WED, DEC 6 | 12:30PM-3:30PM | SANDSTONE 1456R E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N SSoumya PalreddyIan Lowe7

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BHSS 2023PRECONFERENCECALLING ALL EDUCATORS TOCHOOSE BOLDNESSAmanda Florence Goodenough, M.S.Ed, (she/her/hers) is a dedicated educator operating from a cultural humility framework to center andelevate historically marginalized voices, promote belongingness andmattering, disrupt structural inequities, and advance intersectional socialand racial justice.Leaning on 20 years of professional experience in justice, equity,decolonization, and interconnectedness (JEDI) efforts, Amanda engagesin systems-change work and strives to speak truth to power as an actof love and liberation.P R E - C O N F E R E N C E DIf you don’t value educational equity and justice as an educator, move over. Closingopportunity gaps and ensuring that every student feels a sense of belonging and matteringrequires more bold educators who will resist the many forces working against the equitableeducational experiences we seek.This session invites all educators, especially administrative leaders, to choose acourageous, liberatory leadership in order to shift ourselves and our systems towardbecoming the schools our students deserve.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTER:WED, DEC 6 | 12:30PM-3:30PM | SANDSTONE 893R E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N SAmanda Goodenough8

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BHSS 2023PRECONFERENCEBUILDING YOUR SCHOOL-COMMUNITYCOLLABORATION: PARTNERSHIPS,FUNDING AND SUSTAINABILITYKathy Markeland's thirty-year career has been focused on public policy advocacy for public andprivate sector entities and the people that they support. For the past fifteen years at WAFCA, she hasamplified the voice of provider agencies serving children and families across the state throughpreventative services, mental health and substance use treatment, foster care, education and youthjustice supports. Since 2016, it has been WAFCA’s privilege to provide contracted administrativesupport for the Coalition for Expanding School-Based Mental Health in Wisconsin and witness theexponential growth of comprehensive school mental health across the state. WAFCA members areproviders of human services across the state of Wisconsin who work in concert with school partners tosupport children and families. The majority of WAFCA members align with schools to support mentalwell-being through assessment, consultation, training, groups and individual therapy for studentsreferred for enhanced support.Julie Hueller currently serves as Manager for the Racine Collaborative for Children’s Mental Healthfor the Racine Unified School District. Julie has devoted her career to the emotional and mental well-being of children and adults. From her early work in the mental health field as a RN, to her experiencein administration, and ultimately leading to her Community Collaborator role, Julie is passionate aboutensuring that Wisconsin communities address the unmet mental health and addiction needs of childrenand youth. As current Chair of the Coalition for Expanding School-Based Mental Health in Wisconsin,Julie shares her skills as a community connector, project manager, mentor, strategic planner, grantwriter, and project implementer. She is a huge advocate for the comprehensive school-based mentalhealth model, which provides the necessary components that schools need to consider whenaddressing the mental health needs of the whole child.P R E - C O N F E R E N C E EOBJECTIVES:Conducting an environmental scan to identify school and community resources.Identifying roles and responsibilities for multi-level mental health services and supportsUnderstanding tools available for drafting Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) andContracts.Braiding and blending funding to support multi-level services.Wisconsin schools are making progress implementing initiatives that align with the comprehensiveschool mental health model. One of the keys to a system that delivers multi-tiered supports is activeand impactful collaboration with community partners, including counties, providers, health care, andparents to ensure that the whole community is wrapping around students to create a robustecosystems of supports that advance mental well-being.At the core of authentic collaborations is trust which can be built through a commitment to ongoingcommunication, shared understanding of roles, and responsibilities and clarity of expectations. Thissession will focus in on the nuts and bolts of quality collaborations and help participants work throughidentification of key partners and navigation of community relationships. The intent is to advanceschool and community cultures that promote resiliency and embrace the array of strengths thatschools and community partners bring to the table.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:WED, DEC 6 | 12:30PM-3:30PM | TUNDRA ABCR E G I S T E R F O R I N D I V I D U A L P R E - C O N F E R E N C E S E S S I O N S9

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEDEREK FRANCIS | EQUITY IN ACTIONDerek Francis is an experienced licensed school counselor and Executive Director of Equity and School Climate for MinneapolisPublic Schools with a passion and focus for proactive andequity-based counseling. Derek is dedicated to showing educatorsthat the work you do as an individual can create a welcomingand inclusive school for all.K E Y N O T EADDITIONAL SESSIONS WITH DEREK FRANCIS:Examine our own unique individual identities and culture we bring into the school settingand its influence on the school community.Practice strategies to proactively recognize, address and reduce systemic racism anddiscrimination in your schools and counseling practices.Engage in Proactive Tier 1 and Tier 2 Equity Focused lessons and classroom activities.Explore resources and best practices to engage students in equity focusedconversations to promote inclusion.Many educators have found themselves looking for ways to intentionally engage withstudents and families of all backgrounds and identities to promote racial and social justicein their schools. Counselors, therapists, social workers, administrators, and other buildingleaders play a pivotal role in helping students learn about and feel affirmed in their identitiesand understand differences and biases. In order to create a school environment that is trulyinclusive for all students, educators need awareness of systemic and interpersonal barriersthat impact students from diverse backgrounds. This session is about the work you as anindividual can do to create a welcoming and inclusive school for all.In this interactive session educators will:DESCRIPTION:KEYNOTE PRESENTER:THUR, DEC 7 | 9:15AM-10:30AM | SANDSTONE BALLROOMDerek Francis will also facilitate a BIPOC Educators’ Affinity Space and present a sectionalsession, Comprehensive Proactive Strategies For Creating a Welcoming and InclusiveSchool for All Students. See the conference agenda for time and location details. Derek Francis10

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEFROM PREVENTION TO DISCLOSURE:THE SCHOOL PROFESSIONAL’S VITALROLE IN ADDRESSING CHILDMALTREATMENTLaura Staats is the Program Manager of Awareness to Action at Children’s Wisconsin. She has beenwith Awareness to Action since 2020, working throughout Wisconsin to implement primary preventionof child sexual abuse in organizations serving youth. Laura has been part of Children’s Wisconsin for7 years in various roles strengthening families with open child welfare cases, educating on child abuseprevention, and implementing trauma informed care in the health system. Laura has a Bachelor’sdegree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire and a Master’s degree in SocialWork and certificate in Trauma Informed Care from the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee.Lynn Cook, MSW, CAPSW is the Children’s Justice Act Program and Policy Analyst with theDepartment of Justice, Office of Crime Victim Services, where she is responsible for implementingstatewide initiatives that improve the investigation, prosecution, and judicial handling of child abuse.Lynn has extensive experience as a forensic interviewer and systems-based advocate. Herbackground also includes time spent in child welfare and working on sexual abuse primary preventionprogramming. Lynn regularly conducts training and provides expert testimony on sexual abusedynamics around the state.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 1 ASexual misconduct in schools, whether by staff, volunteers, or other youth, prevents young peoplefrom learning and growing in the way they deserve. School staff in all roles are part of cultivating aculture of safety where the risk of child sexual abuse is diminished and responsiveness to misconductis enhanced. This session will educate school personnel on conduct to be attuned to when monitoringfor grooming behaviors, along with teaching best practices in primary prevention as developed by theCDC. Attendees will leave with next steps for creating and sustaining an environment where youngpeople can thrive.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 10:45AM-11:45AM | TUNDRA DEFUnderstand the prevalence and risk of sexual misconduct in schools.Recognize boundary violations, grooming behaviors, and harmful behaviors in the schoolenvironment.Further understand the importance of school professionals’ role in responding to disclosures ofsexual misconduct.Learn best practices to integrate sexual abuse prevention strategies to school policy andprocedures.OBJECTIVES:11

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEAODA POLICY, PROTOCOLS, ANDPROCESS FOR SCHOOL DISTRICTSScott Bakkum, Ms.Ed-School Counseling, is in his 36th year in the field of education. He was a teacher for 10 years before becoming a high schoolcounselor. Scott has worked with local school districts, parent/studentoutreach organizations, community treatment and prevention providersas well as local law enforcement in Waukesha County to battle drugaddiction issues. He retired from the Oconomowoc Area School Districtlast year after spending 24 years in the district serving as a high schoolcounselor and as the AODA coordinator. Scott has also been a member ofthe State AODA Advisory Council. Scott currently serves the Kettle Moraine School District as their part time Mental Health Navigator.Alissa Darin currently serves as a Regional Coordinator for the Wisconsin Safeand Healthy Schools (WISH) Center. Prior to that role, Alissa was a teacher, school counselor and administrator. She has a Bachelor of Science degree from theUniversity of WI-Madison in Kinesiology and a Master’s degree from MarquetteUniversity in Counseling. She holds her National Boards for Professional Teachingin the area of School Counseling and has served on the Board of Directors for theWisconsin School Counselor Association. Alissa is passionate about building andleading teams that support healthy minds and healthy hearts within schools.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 2 A Aligning policy to state law.Engaging students, families, and staff.Focusing on data-informed decision making.Utilizing continuous improvement processes to review, revise, and revamp policies as needed.In this sectional, participants will learn about the process, procedures andprotocols of creating effective and supportive AODA policies in a school setting.Schools, families, and communities need to build partnerships to address theongoing challenges of substance use and abuse of alcohol and drugs in our state.Central to that partnership from a schools perspective, is a well-designed AODApolicy that provides for student accountability, while providing pathways of support forstudents and families.As school districts enter the process of creating AODA policies and procedures at the local level, thefollowing areas highlight promising practices that support a comprehensive approach to creatingcoherence in policy development:By developing policies grounded in education, prevention and intervention, AODA challenges can beaddressed in a comprehensive manner in school districts across the state.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 10:45AM-11:45AM | TUNDRA ABCUnderstand the purpose and necessary procedures for building an effective AODA policy thataddresses the needs of your school district and community.Identify prevention and intervention strategies that can be supported with AODA policy in accordancewith local data.Consider alternatives to exclusionary practices that promote support and brief interventions forstudent/families dealing with substance use.Participants will be able to:1.2.3.OBJECTIVES:Alissa DarinScott Bakkum12

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEEMPOWERING STUDENT SUCCESS:INTEGRATING FAMILY ASSISTANCE ANDMENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT SYSTEMSTara Allert, Student Family Assistance Provider, Gundersen Health System & School District of LaCrosse is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) working forGundersen Health System as the therapist at the secondary level for the Student Family Assistance Program(SFAP). In this role she supports students and families using a variety of modalities and interventions.Tracy Caravella, Project AWARE Grant Coordinator, School District of La Crosse. Previously, she servedfor over 25 years as a Health Educator, teaching grades 7-12, undergraduate and graduate students. Her areasof specialization include: mental health promotion, stress management, sexuality education, and teacherpreparation.Jamie Ganske, Director of Mental Health and Resiliency, Chippewa Falls Unified School District hasworked with the school district for 12 years. Jamie has been able to start a School Based Mental Healthprogram, a Student and Family Assistance Program, an Interconnected Systems Framework, and a District andCommunity Leadership team in her district. She truly values the partnerships she has with the community andloves bringing the community clinicians into the school buildings. Working together as a team creates far betteroutcomes than any one person can do alone.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 3 ADescribe the strengths and areas of growth for the Student Family Assistance Program.Explain the benefits of SFAP for students, families, and educators.Describe strategies for supporting collaboration with educators in order to best support universal studentmental health needs within the context of an SFAP partnership.As a part of its Project AWARE Grant, the School District of La Crosse in partnership with Gundersen HealthSystems began implementing a Student Family Assistance Program (SFAP) during 2021. The purpose of theSFAP program is to provide short-term early intervention to students experiencing mental health challenges.The program aims to eliminate logistical barriers by providing care at school, during school hours. One of thebenefits of implementing a SFAP program has included the collaboration with teachers, staff, andadministrators regarding best practices in youth mental health. Program highlights, areas for growth, andopportunities to consider how districts continue to increase access to mental health support for students will bediscussed.Participants will be able to:REFLECTIONS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A STUDENT FAMILYASSISTANCE PROGRAM - SCHOOL DISTRICT OF LA CROSSEPRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 10:45AM-11:45AM | WILDERNESS 1 & 4learn a variety of mental health support options;learn ideas of how to implement mental health supports; andbe able to ask questions.This session will discuss the array of mental health supports offered in the Chippewa Falls Area Unified SchoolDistrict. These include School Based Mental Health, a Student and Family Assistance Program, anInterconnected Systems Framework, and a District and Community Leadership Team. Mental health supportsare not one-size-fits-all; your district may do these same systems differently. Participants will be invited toshare what they are doing that works well.Participants will:A SYSTEM OF MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS - CHIPPEWA FALLSUNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICTTHIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.13

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCECOACHING FOR SUCCESS: CLOSING THEGAP BETWEEN SOCIAL, EMOTIONAL ANDBEHAVIORAL (SEB) PROFESSIONALDEVELOPMENT AND CLASSROOMIMPLEMENTATIONPatrick Uselding is a Lead Coach for the Coaching for Success project with Rogers BehavioralHealth. Before coming to work at Rogers, he spent nearly thirty years in education as a teacher,counselor, leader, coach & mentor. During that time, he honed his skills in developing andimplementing programs and initiatives around SEB. In addition to that work, he has had the privilegeto coach and mentor countless colleagues on creating safer, more engaging & supportive classrooms.He has a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary/Middle Education and a Master’s of Science in Education-School Counseling, both from Concordia University.Kimberly Johnson is an educational leader with 15 years of experience teaching high school studentsand mentoring adult learners in education and business. Specializes in experiential and project basedteaching - designing curriculum that is engaging, relevant, and rooted in community knowledge.Tirelessly pursues opportunities to become a better practitioner through research, coaching, andcollaboration. Holds degrees in Secondary English Education from University of Wisconsin - Madisonand Education & Entrepreneurship from University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 4 AThis sectional will introduce participants to Coaching for Success, a project developed to helpeducators close the gap between the social, emotional & behavioral training they receive and itsimplementation in the classroom by adding SEB coaching to professional development. Participantswill be presented with a definition of coaching and a brief overview of the research on coaching; gaininsight into the development, key principle, delivery & growth of the project; and will be able toparticipate in a few coaching activities.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 10:45AM-11:45AM | WILDERNESS 2 & 5Participants will learn about coaching and the Coaching for Success project.Participants will be able to explain the importance of adding the component of coaching to social,emotional & behavior professional development for school staff.Participants will have the opportunity to partake in a coaching activity.OBJECTIVES:THIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.14

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEBIPOC EDUCATORS’ AFFINITY SPACEDerek Francis is an experienced licensed school counselor and ExecutiveDirector of Equity and School Climate for Minneapolis Public Schools with apassion and focus for proactive and equity-based counseling. Derek isdedicated to showing educators that the work you do as an individual cancreate a welcoming and inclusive school for all.Brittney Fair works at Rogers Behavioral Health as a training specialist. In this role, she facilitates trainings for leaders in the non-profit,education and healthcare sectors across the country.Brittney also facilitates programming for staff at RogersBehavioral Health and with parents in the community.Brittney is the newest member to the CommunityLearning and Engagement Team at Rogers. Priorto joining the team, Brittney worked for MetaHouse as a Senior Residential Support Specialistand a Lead Care Coordinator for WisconsinCommunity Services with the Mental Healthand AODA population. Brittney earned her Bachelorof Science in Psychology and Bachelor of Arts inSociology from the University of Wisconsin-Parkside.Brittney received her Master of Social Work fromConcordia University-Wisconsin and is an AdvancedPracticing Social Worker, working towards becoming aLicensed Social Worker in Wisconsin.NaQuisha Mann currently serves as the Family & Student EngagementCoach with the Fond du Lac School District. Learn more about NaQuisha’sdedication to education and excitement for the connections schools can buildin this DPI-ConnectEd article.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 5 A ADDITIONAL SESSIONS WITH DEREK FRANCIS:The BIPOC Educators' Affinity Space will be dedicated to advance racial and social justice by creatinga space of belonging and voice for Black, Indigenous, and all racially marginalized educators.The purpose of an affinity space is to provide a positive, affirming environment for social groups thathave been historically marginalized, to come together and engage in open dialogues. The space isdesigned for healing, support, and empowerment.DESCRIPTION:FACILITATORS:THUR, DEC 7 | 10:45AM-11:45AM | GLACIER ABCDDerek Francis will also facilitate Comprehensive Proactive Strategies For Creating aWelcoming and Inclusive School for All Students and present the keynote session Equity inAction. See the conference agenda for time & location details. Reflect on your experience and “why” as an educator of color.Consider the impact you have with on students of all backgrounds with your presence.Learn strategies to sustain yourself and build connections.This will be a space for joy, uplifting and healing.OBJECTIVES:F O R M O R E I N F O O N A F F I N I T Y S P A C E S A N D T O S H A R E F E E D B A C K O NF U T U R E S E S S I O N S S E E T H E C O N F E R E N C E E V A L P A G ENaQuisha Mann& Gov. EversBrittney FairDerek Francis15

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCERELATIONSHIPS MATTERDr. Rainey L. Briggs is listed as one of the 48 Most Influential Black people in the state of Wisconsin 2021 by Madison 365. Dr. Briggs is adynamic educator who has served as a cultural liaison, teacher, principal,Director of Elementary Education, and currently serves as the School District Superintendent of Baraboo schools. As an African American boy growing up in poverty, Dr. Briggs quickly learned how toadvocate for himself and others and has carried that passion over intohis daily work. Dr. Briggs obtained his degree from Edgewood Collegeand wrote a dissertation on the Factors that Promote or Impeded theSuccess of African American Males in a Predominately White High School.Dr. Briggs strives to bring a voice to marginalized students and families.As a principal, he collaborated with staff and families to bring the motto“Every kid, Every day, Whatever it Takes” at the forefront of their schooland a mission to live by daily.Dr. Briggs has worked with many school districts on providing professional development around equity andcultural responsiveness. He is also an adjunct professor at Edgewood College and Viterbo (V (eye) ter Bo)University. Dr. Briggs is a husband to Julie, an educator herself, and the dad to three teenage daughters.When they are not in a gym or on a field, Dr. Briggs and his family enjoy traveling, spending time outdoors,and barbecuing.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 1 BIn the world of education, relationships matter. Whether it's between staff and students, peer-to-peer,or students advocating for themselves, the quality of our relationships can have a significant impacton academic achievement, social-emotional well-being, and overall school culture. In thispresentation, we will explore why relationships matter in education and how we can cultivate strongerand more meaningful connections to enhance student success and well-being.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 12:45PM-1:45PM | TUNDRA DEFFirst, we will examine the benefits of building strong relationships in education. From improvedacademic performance and student engagement to positive school culture and communityinvolvement, strong relationships can have a transformative effect on the learning environment.Second, we will discuss strategies for building and maintaining strong relationships between staffand students, peer-to-peer, and students advocating for themselves. This will include tips oneffective communication, active listening, and conflict resolution, as well as the importance ofempathy, understanding, and trust in building connections.OBJECTIVES:Dr. Rainey Briggs16

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Molly Herrmann (she/her) is an Education Consultantat the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction. She has over 24 years of experience in public health andeducation working with LGBTQ+ populations in Wisconsin.In her role at DPI, Molly supports educators in creatinginclusive spaces for LGBTQ+ students in schools. She alsoanalyzes and shares Youth Risk Behavior Survey data andpairs it with best practices to address challenges faced byLGBTQ+ youth.Brian Juchems (he/him) is Co-Executive Director for GSAFE. He has worked to create safe and affirming schools for WisconsinLGBTQ+ youth since 1998, with a focus on directly collaboratingwith local and statewide partners to build district-level protectionsand support for transgender and nonbinary students. Each year Brian J.provides professional development for thousands of educators acrossWisconsin. Under his shared leadership of GSAFE has been recognizedby state and national education leaders as a vital advocate for socialjustice for queer and transgender youth in Wisconsin schools.PRESENTERS:BHSS 2023CONFERENCEBE THE ONE:SUPPORTING LGBTQ+ YOUTHS E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 2 B LGBTQ+ youth benefit significantly from having supportive adults in their lives.Schools, community programs and services, and caregivers can take simple stepsto providing inclusive environments. Participants will walk away with LGBT youthdata, best practices, and new resources to boost their knowledge and skills.DESCRIPTION:THUR, DEC 7 | 12:45PM-1:45PM | TUNDRA ABCunderstand LGBTQ+ youth data about the effects of supportive practicesdescribe best practices to support LGBTQ+ youthidentify resources to better serve LGBTQ+ youthOBJECTIVES:Molly HerrmannBrian Juchems17

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCECOMPREHENSIVE PROACTIVESTRATEGIES FOR CREATING AWELCOMING AND INCLUSIVESCHOOL FOR ALL STUDENTSDerek Francis is an experienced licensed school counselor and Executive Director of Equity and School Climate for MinneapolisPublic Schools with a passion and focus for proactive and equity-based counseling. Derek is dedicated to showing educatorsthat the work you do as an individual can create a welcomingand inclusive school for all.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 3 B ADDITIONAL SESSIONS WITH DEREK FRANCIS:Highlight benefits and examples of district wide and building equity focused teams to increase amore welcoming school climate.Proactive strategies and guidelines for responding to hate, bias or other divisive incidents inschools.Learn for removing barriers and supporting student academic, college and career, and mentalhealth through an equity lens. Explore practices and opportunities to build school and community relationships and uplift diversestudent and families voices.This breakout session is intended for district, building and school leaders lookingfor tangible strategies to create a more welcoming and inclusive school climate forstudents, staff, and the community.Now more than ever students need a school space where their identities are welcomed and affirmedand opportunities to learn about and celebrate those who have similarities and differences. Schoolsmust be intentional to examine how academics, mental and social emotional health, college andcareer readiness services are lead through an equity lens to close gaps. Many students fromhistorically marginalized communities have and continue to experience not being welcomed atschools, so it is paramount that district and building leaders develop culturally responsive tools.Utilizing the ASCA National Model and the Lead For Equity Framework, this session will:DESCRIPTION:PRESENTER:THUR, DEC 7 | TIME 12:45PM-1:45PM | WILDERNESS 1 & 4Derek Francis will also facilitate a BIPOC Educators’ Affinity Space and present the keynotesession Equity in Action. See the conference agenda for time and location details.Derek FrancisTHIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.18

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Michael Altekruse graduated from Indiana University with his Ph.D. inCounseling Psychology and Educational Psychology. Dr. Altekruse workedon the staffs of college counseling centers at Ball State University,University of Memphis and UW Oshkosh before taking on the role asMental Health Coordinator at Neenah Joint School District (NJSD) 7years ago. As the first Mental Health Coordinator in NJSD's history he hashelped facilitate and develop suicide prevention programs, school-basedmental health, threat assessments and other initiatives to promote mentalhealth.Most school staff and families agree that mental health education and interventions are an important partof a school's offerings. Neenah Joint School District (NJSD) decided in 2015 that they wanted to hiresomeone to coordinate these efforts and to measure their success. Seven years later and through apandemic, Dr. Michael Altekruse would like to discuss how being hired as NJSD's first Mental HealthCoordinator has gone and what he has learned about mental health in a public school.This session will discuss getting a school-based mental health program started, screening, suicideprevention, threat assessments, and other initiatives he has been involved in and how they have evolvedor devolved over his tenure. He will talk about the challenges, successes, and pitfalls he has comeacross and give his perspective on your questions.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:Identify the mental health needs of school districts.Identify ways to support the mental health needs of students and families.Identify community resources and school-based mental health.Discuss challenges and solutions to implementing mental health initiatives.OBJECTIVES:BHSS 2023CONFERENCEREFLECTIONS OF A MENTAL HEALTHCOORDINATOR: ARE WE NEEDED ANDWHAT ARE WE DOING?S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 4 B THUR, DEC 7 | 12:45PM-1:45PM | WILDERNESS 2 & 5Michael AltekruseTHIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.19

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Karen Spann-Turner has been a social worker for 20+ years. As a School Social Worker in Milwaukee Public Schools, shehas worked with children and families ranging from ages K3- 22years. She has also been a trainer for teachers and staff fortrauma sensitive practices. Karen is currently serving as theTrauma Support Team Leader for the 53206 PromisePartnership Schools, supporting a team of 12 professionals tosupport trauma informed care. She is also an Adjunct Instructorat Marquette University in the Department of Social and CulturalSciences. Karen is a current board member for the WisconsinSchool Social Work Association (WSSWA), a licensed therapist,and a member of numerous committees advocating for familiesand social justice issues in Wisconsin. She also facilitatesworkshops and presentations on mental fitness for fosterparents and other organizations within the community.Megan Wright, CAPSW, has served as a School Social Workerwith Milwaukee Public Schools for the past eleven years. For the past 3 years, Megan has been working as part of the53206 Mobile Trauma Team, supporting four Milwaukee Public Schools that reside within the 53206 zip code. Her primary area ofexpertise includes working with children and families in urbanschool settings.PRESENTERS:BHSS 2023CONFERENCETRAUMA SUPPORT:TEAM MODEL IN SCHOOLSS E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 5 B The presenters will share a model detailing a creative approach to supportthe needs of students, families and staff. This program was developed toaddress trauma sensitive needs within a zip code that was battling a numberof challenges and adversities. This zip code has been identified withincarceration rates, violent crime, intimate partner violence, and child welfareissues higher than average in the city of Milwaukee. School leaders wantedsupport for the high levels of adversities and the mental health concerns withstudents and staff relating to traumatic experiences.A unique team of trauma support specialists, and other mentalhealth providers was developed to address needs at Tier 1, 2and 3. Come and learn about the model and how similar workcould be supported in your district or area.DESCRIPTION:THUR, DEC 7 | 12:45PM-1:45PM | GLACIER ABCDWhat are the program goals?Current measurements and outcome data.To learn about the 53206 Trauma Support Team Initiative:OBJECTIVES:Megan WrightKaren Spann-Turner20

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BELONGING MATTERS:FOSTERING CONNECTIONFOR SUICIDE PREVENTIONJenny Holle is an experienced educator with over 25 years of dedicationto the field, having served as a school counselor and special educationteacher. She brings a wealth of expertise to her role as theRegional Coordinator for CESAs 2, 3, and 6 at the WisconsinSafe and Healthy Schools (WISH) Center. Beyond her professional endeavors, Jenny finds joy in her role as a spouse and parent of threewonderful children, and she enjoys the outdoors, music, quality timewith loved ones, and volunteering with a local youth theater group.Katharine Reid brings over two decades of education experience, ranging from elementary to high school levels, serving as a school counselorand school counseling system specialist. In her role as the Statewide ProjectCoordinator with the WISH Center, she oversees online learning coordination,professional development facilitation, and educational resource development.Katharine earned a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology and a Master’s degree inEducational Psychology from UW - Milwaukee. In 2014 she completed NationalBoard Certification and in 2017 she was completely honored to meet MichelleObama and represent Wisconsin as Wisconsin School Counselor of the Year inWashington, DC. In her spare time, she can be found hiking, kayaking andcycling with friends and family, as well as cooking, knitting and digging in thegarden.BHSS 2023CONFERENCES E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 1 C Suicide prevention work is challenging and critical to the wellbeing of our students.What does the data say? What are best practices? What are schools' legalrequirements? What steps can schools take to help prevent suicide? Please join us aswe go beyond statistics, resources and programs for suicide prevention to explore how authenticconnection and belonging form a significant piece of the puzzle of suicide prevention.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 2:00PM-3:00PM | TUNDRA DEFParticipants will learn about the WHAT, WHY, and HOW of suicide prevention work. Including: data,best practices, legal requirements, programming.Participants will explore and share with others ways to encourage belonging in schools for everystudent.Participants will "connect the dots" between belonging and suicide prevention.OBJECTIVES:Katharine ReidJenny Holle21

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Katie Berg, SNS Statewide Coordinator, IDEA Discretionary Grant, hasbeen supporting students for more than 20 years. In the private sector, publiceducation, and statewide through an IDEA Discretionary Grant her experiencesinclude providing one on one therapy, classroom teaching, administration,technical assistance, coaching, along with district and statewide training. Katiehas experience working with unique neurodiverse learners focusing on theSocial and Emotional Learning skills that help students and educators supportbehaviors that are challenging to adults.Participants will learn the importance of teaching students about how their brain works. Informationabout the emotional part of our brain, the social part of our brain, and how those two parts can affectacademic access, engagement, and progress will be provided. https://snswi.com/EmpoweringDESCRIPTION:BHSS 2023CONFERENCEEMPOWER STUDENTS: TEACHINGSTUDENTS ABOUT THEIR BRAINS E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 2 C THUR, DEC 7 | 2:00PM-3:00PM | TUNDRA ABCPRESENTERS:Takeaway strategies and resources to create their own lessons on how to support students inlearning about their brain.Learn the importance of teaching students about how their brain works.Takeaway strategies and resources to create their own lessons on how to support students inlearning about their brain.Participants will:OBJECTIVES:Katie Berg22

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCENAVIGATING BARRIERS TO MENTALHEALTH SERVICESAdam Nowak, Mental Health Navigator - Project AWARE, Lakeland Consortium School District has15 plus years in the mental health field including work in a dual diagnosis mental health full-timeresidential care facility and school. Adam was a Unit Manager & Paraprofessional in the classroomworking with youth ages during this time. After that work experience, he became a ComprehensiveCommunity Services-Service Facilitator for a Tri County area of Northern Wisconsin. During this time,Adam was also employed as an Emergency Service Program Crisis Screener for the tri-county areahandling and determining if a Chapter 51 should be utilized to support a mental health need. Adam’sexperiences with these jobs and areas have helped him to see first hand the gaps that remain in themental health system. Many of which can be alleviated by offering patients and families opportunity tobetter access follow up care often recommended after Chapter 51 hospitalizations.Joshua Schroeder, Grant Coordinator - Project AWARE, Lakeland Consortium School Districtworks as the Project AWARE Mental Health Grant Coordinator. He has extensive experience in theschool systems and navigating the grant work involved in our Project AWARE grant. His role includesarranging the financial coordination of our grant and creating and facilitating professional developmentopportunities that the grant assists our school staff in accessing.Kristie Johns, Parent Peer Specialist - WI Family Ties works as the Lakeland Consortium Parent PeerSpecialist. She specializes in a variety of areas that assist families in navigating mental health supports.She is also a lived experience advocate and resource.Jamie Ganske, Director of Mental Health and Resiliency - Chippewa Falls Unified School District worked with the school district for 12 years. Jamie has been able to start a School Based Mental HealthProgram, a Student and Family Assistance Program, an Interconnected Systems Framework, and aDistrict and Community Leadership Team in her district. She truly values the partnerships she has withthe community and loves bringing the community clinicians into the school buildings. Working together asa team creates far better outcomes than any one person can do alone.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 3 C Through this presentation, participants will learn new ideas on how to support families that are seekingmental health care. These services and systems are difficult for many to navigate efficiently andeffectively. By leveraging other supports, such as school staff members, during this process we havefound great success in helping our students and families follow through with sought and/or recommendedmental health care. We also are creating a better way to access these services through our currentschool-based service model and improving our overall school climates by creating better access points tocommunity mental health providers. Throughout today's presentation, we will provide options for you andyour schools to consider as you begin to navigate and improve the access for mental health care for yourschool's students and families.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 2:00PM-3:00PM | WILDERNESS 1 & 4Navigate mental health barriers and find outcomes utilizing family choice to better access care forstudents and families interested in services.OBJECTIVE:THIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.23

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCETOOLS TO BEGIN BUILDING ACOMPREHENSIVE MENTAL HEALTHSYSTEM WITHIN A RURAL COMMUNITYDebbie Moellendorf, Professor - University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension has 34years of experience as an Extension Educator in the field of adolescent health and youth developmentprogramming. She is currently serving as the District Mental Health Navigator with the Merrill Area PublicSchool District. She is highly skilled at creating community collaborations bringing local, university andother resources together to address complex issues. During her career she has received numerousawards for her programming at the state, regional and national level including the Wisconsin NationalAlliance on Mental Illness IRIS Advocacy Award in 2022.Allie Libby is in her first year as an Associate Principal at Merrill High School after serving as aschool counselor for the past nine years. She serves in different youth development capacities within herschool and community and serves on the Comprehensive Mental Health Academy within her district thathas been recognized by DPI for its work. She also works with NAMI-Northwoods to support the expansionof the Raise Your Voice Club throughout Central Wisconsin, based on the club she co-facilitated andstarted in Merrill which has been a model program for Wisconsin. Her passion is youth empowerment andcollaboration to build capacity within schools and communities and is happy to be serving in this new roleand working to expand the school’s use of restorative and trauma-informed approaches.Trisha Kubichek has been a school social worker at Merrill High School for the past three years.Previously, she has worked in a behavioral health care clinic providing community treatment services toboth youth and adults struggling with their mental health and/or substance abuse. She has a strong focuson strengthening community partnerships to maximize resources while supporting youth with a person-centered approach. She looks for opportunities within the school and community to reduce barriers thatyouth and families might face when accessing services.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 4 C Building a Comprehensive Mental Health System that supports the diverse needs of students within arural school district can feel overwhelming and leave stakeholders not sure where to start. Based on theframework DPI teaches in the Comprehensive School Mental Health (CSMH) Academy, Merrill AreaPublic Schools is making strides in this complex landscape. Attendees of this session will gain anunderstanding of what this framework looks like, have real-life examples of how we are building thesesystems, and leave with a multi-system approach for teams to consider when working to addressstudent’s mental health and substance use concerns.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 2:00PM-3:00PM | WILDERNESS 2 & 5Participants will gain an understanding on the DPI Mental Health Framework, tier 1, 2, and 3 SEL andAODA interventions, how to collect appropriate data, the importance of building communitypartnerships, and how to effectively allocate funding.OBJECTIVES:THIS SESSION WILL BE RECORDED. ACCESS TO THE RECORDING WILL BE AVAILABLE TO ALLCONFERENCE REGISTRANTS 1 WEEK AFTER THE CONFERENCE.24

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BHSS 2023CONFERENCEA COMPREHENSIVE APPROACHTO BULLYING PREVENTION FORLGBTQ+ YOUTHLibby Strunz is a School Mental Health Consultant for the WisconsinDepartment of Public Instruction. Libby began her career in public education as a high school English teacher and later transitioned to being a middle schoolcounselor. In both roles, she worked closely with LGBTQ+ students as a GSAadvisor. As a member of DPI’s Student Services/Prevention and WellnessTeam, she provides training and technical assistance in the areas ofcomprehensive school mental health systems, bullying prevention, andtrauma sensitive schools.S E C T I O N A L S E S S I O N 5 C Bullying is a pervasive problem for youth, and the negative outcomes associatedwith bullying can be both serious and long lasting. According to the most recentdata from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), Wisconsin’s lesbian, gay, andbisexual youth experience bullying at rates that are more than double that of their heterosexual peers.In this session, participants will explore ways that schools can implement inclusive and comprehensivebullying prevention and response procedures that give specific focus to LGBTQ+ youth and otherstudents vulnerable to bullying. Because the prevalence of bullying targeting LGBTQ+ students can beinfluenced strongly by school climate, participants will also discuss specific strategies for creating a safeand inclusive school climate.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:THUR, DEC 7 | 2:00PM-3:00PM | GLACIER ABCDLearn about and discuss data related to LGBTQ+ bullying experiences in Wisconsin.Explore resources that they can use in their school or district to help build a comprehensive system ofbullying prevention and response.Learn strategies for creating a positive, inclusive school climate for LGBTQ+ youth.Participants will:OBJECTIVES:Libby Strunz25

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BHSS 2023RECORDINGSAUTHENTIC CONVERSATIONS:NAVIGATING THE TRANSGENDEREXPERIENCE AND PRONOUN USAGE INTHE CLASSROOMDr. Elijah Nicholas Born and raised in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Dr. Elijah Nicholas, a veteran senior military officer and 12-time published author, holdsa Doctorate in Business Administration, three Master’s degrees, a Bachelorof Science, and a Certificate from Harvard Divinity’s Executive Educationprogram. Yes, he was in school a LONG time! He considers himself to be aLifelong Learner.Dr. Elijah is internationally known as a Transgender Advocate,Transgender-Inclusive Family & Children’s Book Author, and a Film Actor,Director and Producer. Dr. Elijah is currently Co-Producing the short filmMISUNDERSTOOD where he highlights how Conscious Love and Compassionoutweigh any biases or beliefs we may have on the personal level. Dr. Elijah isthe host of his own podcast, “The Elijah Nicholas Show,” and also his most recent creation; a panel titled“Men of TRANSFormation” where he uplifts the voices of Black Transgender men. In 2021 Dr. ElijahNicholas Co-hosted the OUT Georgia Business Alliance Annual Community Awards Gala. He is therecipient of the 2021 Trans Life Award - Pioneer of Inspiration.Dr. Elijah Nicholas can be seen on TV One as a recurring guest Journalist commentating on multipleepisodes of the number one show on the network, Fatal Attraction! He’s also appeared on The SteveHarvey Show as well as The Book of Sean on Fox Soul. When Dr. Elijah isn’t speaking, advocating,writing, or acting, you can find him spending time with his lovely Boxer King Duke and his busy BullyQueen Tillie where he lives in Atlanta, GA.A D D I T I O N A L R E C O R D E DS E S S I O NPronoun usage in the workplace and classroom: the good, the bad, and the indifferent.Methods for leadership teams in collaboration with human resource professionals, teachers, andcounselors to navigate LGBTQIA+ employee's experiences (with and amongst all employees) whilefacilitating authentic employee and student inclusion (specifically from the transgender perspective).The purpose of this session is to provide a safe environment for learning about:Dr. Elijah will share methods to create an organic and genuine welcoming environment for all employeesand students while also understanding/empathizing with differences within the classroom.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTER:Understanding of the Transgender experience based on the facilitator's lived experiences.Understanding of the differences between Gender Identity and Sexual Orientation and why thisunderstanding is critical to developing inclusive, affirming, and welcoming classrooms.Understanding of how leadership teams in collaboration with human resource professionals, teachers,and counselors can navigate pronoun usage / discussion in the classroom so all students are includedand acknowledged using their preferred language.Viewers will gain:OBJECTIVES:Dr. Elijah Nicholas26

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BHSS 2023RECORDINGSWHEN AT-HOME VIOLENCECOMES TO SCHOOL: HOW TOISSUE SPOT AND HOW TO SERVEYOUR STUDENTS SAFELYJennifer Paine has an extensive background in domestic violence (DV) and sexual assault (SA)advocacy and non-profit leadership. She is committed to raising awareness about the epidemic ofdomestic violence and sexual assault in our communities and advocating for survivors. Ms. Paine is agraduate of Albion College and MSU College of Law. She is a frequent speaker and volunteer for college,law college and civics programs, and she has been featured in USA Today, Huffington Post and theAssociated Press. Ms. Paine practices in the areas of domestic relations, estate planning and probatelitigation. She is licensed to practice in the State of Michigan, the US District Court for the EasternDistrict of Michigan, the US District Court for the Western District of Michigan and the US Court ofAppeals, Sixth Circuit. She has also been admitted pro hac vice in several jurisdictions. She is avolunteer with HAVEN, the US Department of Justice's Hague Convention/Anti-Kidnapping Campaign andLakeshore Legal Aid. In addition to her law practice, Pinnacle Family Law, Ms. Paine served on the Boardof Directors of Surviving to Thrive and as counsel for TheEnough Initiative, both of Michigan prior tocoming to Kenosha, Wisconsin. She is the Executive Director of Women and Children’s Horizons, one ofthe oldest domestic violence and sexual assault services providers in Wisconsin.A D D I T I O N A L R E C O R D E DS E S S I O NThis presentation will focus on child witnesses and victims of DV, SA, and intimate partner/familyviolence and what you, as school staff, can do about it. We will explore the prevalence of the problem inour state through interactive Q&A; common traits that indicate a child has witnessed or experiencedabuse; crisis intervention techniques, using live demonstrations, that do not affect the reliability ofevidence or implicate your school; and resources you may use. Statistically, 1 in 3 women and 1 in 9 menwill be a victim of family violence in their lifetime, children who witness violence are 250% more likely tobe victims or perpetrators as adults, and Wisconsin is the 8th highest state in country for DV-relatedhomicides- this problem exists, it is real, and it is common - and you need to know how to handle itsafely.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:Prevalence of DV, SA and other intimate partner/family violence in Wisconsin (e.g., we are the 8thhighest state in the country for DV-related homicides alone).Common characteristics of children who have witnessed or experienced DV, SA or other intimatepartner/family violence.Crisis response techniques that are age-appropriate and do not impair reliability of evidence for laterprosecution.Crisis response techniques that do not implicate the school or staff.Resources available for students, schools, and staff.OBJECTIVES:27

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BHSS 2023RECORDINGSBUFFERING THE IMPACT OF ADVERSECHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES WITH HOPE*Cindy Czarnik-Neimeyer, M.S., CPS has worked for over 30 years as a therapist, trainer, and PreventionSpecialist. She is employed by Catalpa Health, an organization that supports mental health and wellnessfor children and adolescents, and is contracted to the Appleton Area School District, as well assurrounding districts, as the Mental Health and Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Abuse Liaison. Cindyand her husband, Jake, have 4 adult children and also enjoy being foster parents.Chris Wardlow, MAT, is a substance abuse prevention specialist. Chris provides technical assistance tocommunities, schools, agencies and organizations that are seeking to incorporate evidence-basedstrategies and services to prevent and reduce substance abuse among young people. He has a specialinterest in speaking to groups about practices and policies that promote mental health and resilience inchildren and adolescents - two powerful assets that help young people resist drugs, tobacco, and alcohol.Chris received his Master of Arts in Teaching from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.A D D I T I O N A L R E C O R D E DS E S S I O NMost of us are familiar with ACEs, Toxic Stress, and Trauma and the potential impact on braindevelopment, behavior, and learning. But ACEs are only half of the equation. Join us to learn about theways that HOPE--Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences--and caring adults can help buildresilience and JOY in our children and in ourselves.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:Viewers will understand the ways that HOPE can buffer ACES in children and adults.OBJECTIVES:*HEALTHY OUTCOMES FROM POSITIVE EXPERIENCES28

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BHSS 2023RECORDINGSRECOVERY HIGH SCHOOLS FORWISCONSIN: THE TIME HAS COMEJohn Fournelle, Founder and President Horizon High School Board of Directors, is a retiredgeoscientist from UW-Madison. Around 2003 his son was not coming home at night, ingesting whateversubstances he could find and getting locked up. After returning to his old school from rehab at Hazelden,he immediately fell back into the same behavior (=relapsed). Repeat three times. Then counselor, ShellyDutch said, "if we had a recovery school, he might have a chance". That started the wheels spinning, andthey and four others created Horizon High School in January 2005, currently the only recovery school inWisconsin. It hasn't been easy, but definitely worth it.Traci Goll, Director, Horizon High School of Madison, Inc., has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychologyand Special Education from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She also completed her Master’sdegree in Rehabilitation Psychology & Special Education at Madison. She holds a certificate inadministration and is a certified K-12 teacher. Traci has been the Director of Horizon High School for 17years and has been working in the education field for over 30 years.Madeline Brown, Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC, LADC) at Horizon High School, has aBachelor of Science degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies, minoring in Psychology, from Minnesota StateUniversity – Mankato. She has many years of experience guiding those who struggle with substanceabuse issues to lead healthier, balanced lifestyles. Madeline has held leadership positions working inboth residential and outpatient treatment centers as well as serving on several Drug Treatment CourtTeams in Minnesota and Wisconsin.A D D I T I O N A L R E C O R D E DS E S S I O NThis presentation will inform the WI educational community about the existence of recovery high schools(currently ~45 nationally) and to provide information on how Horizon started and operates. Recoveryschools are explicitly sober alternative high schools, with drug testing, individual and group counseling,and immediate attention to mental health crises, in addition to academics. Substance abuse disorder inmany cases co-occurs with mental health issues. We are working with legislators to come up with thenecessary state (and federal) funding to create and sustain more WI recovery schools. Wisconsin needsmore recovery high schools to support youth in recovery.DESCRIPTION:PRESENTERS:Describe recovery high schools as one strong tool to support youth in recovery.Describe the process by which Horizon High School developed and operates.Explain current efforts by us and legislators to provide funding for WI recovery schools.OBJECTIVES:29

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BHSS 2023RECORDINGSFUTURE TRENDS & EMERGINGPRODUCTS - E-CIGARETTES AND THESHIFTING LANDSCAPE OF ADOLESCENTTOBACCO USEA D D I T I O N A L R E C O R D E DS E S S I O NDr. Brian Williams, MD, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics and Medicine, University of Wisconsin Schoolof Medicine and Public Health, and the UW Center for Tobacco Research and InterventionPRESENTER:E-cigarettes have been very popular among adolescents over the past eight years. Balancing healthharms in young people with their potential role as a smoking cessation aid has led to intense publichealth debate. We will explore e-cigarettes, their evolution, trends in use, associated health harms, andclinical approaches to treating addiction.DESCRIPTION:30

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Arrive promptly for sessionsIf you must leave early, please do so quietly.Silence all cell phones during presentations.Be considerate of presenters; limit private Dress in layers; room temperatures may vary. conversations.REMINDERSBest PracticesBHSS 2023CONFERENCE NOTESRibbons will be available at the conference for attendees to attachtheir name badge to communicate their comfort level forconference interactions. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available for attendees, ifneeded. To be considerate of the health of all conference attendees please donot attend the conference if you are sick. The conference attendanceand billing guidelines are generous for cancellations due to illness andother emergencies, and the option to update your registration toRecording Access Only is also available. Please contact KalliRasmussen (krasmussen@cesa4.org) for cancellation or registrationupdate requests. Supports for healthy participation at the conference:Health & Attendance GuidanceRegistered participants will receive access to recordings of keynote andselect sessions one week after the conference. Photos or video may beposted on the conference website, social media or used for marketingpurposes. At any event, a participant can ask to not be filmed orphotographed by notifying the conference planning committee or sessionfacilitator.Photos & Video Recording In ProgressHandouts from slides from presenters will be available to registeredparticipants via the Building the Heart of Successful Schools resourceswebsite. Access details and more information will also be provided to allregistered participants via email. Conference ResourcesAn application has been submitted for up to 10 continuing education hours(includes pre-conference) with the National Association of Social Workers,Wisconsin Chapter. In-person conference registrants can request to receivea certificate of participation after the conference by submitting a brief onlineform and entering participation codes provided for each session attended.The deadline for submitting the CEHs form is December 31, 2023.Participants will receive the certificate in January 2024. Please contact Julie Incitti (School Social Work Consultant, DPI, julie.incitti@dpi.wi.gov)with questions.CEHs (Continuing Education Hours)QR Code for CEHsBe respectful of room capacitiesSave personal or specific questions for Check your area for personal belongings Dispose of trash and recycle properly. the speaker for the end of the presentation. before you leave. 31

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Paul Manriquez, Assistant State Superintendent, Division for Learning SupportSusan Piazza, DirectorBrenda Jennings, Assistant DirectorBrianna Scott, Operations Program AssociateElizabeth Pease, Office Operations AssociateErick Blasing, Education Consultant Mary Croy, Office Operations AssociateJohn Bowser, Research and EvaluationMonica Caldwell, Education ConsultantAndrea Donegan, Education ConsultantJessica Frain, Education ConsultantMolly Herrmann, Education ConsultantEmily Holder, Education ConsultantKaren Horn, Education ConsultantHafsa Mohamed, Grants SpecialistMichael Morgen, Education ConsultantJulie Incitti, Education ConsultantDenise Kohout, Education SpecialistLiz Krubsack, Education ConsultantStephanie LaHaye, Grants Specialist AdvancedTim Peerenboom, Education ConsultantLisa Stein, Education ConsultantLibby Strunz, Education ConsultantCasie Sulzle, Education ConsultantNathan Werley, Education ConsultantMargret Whaley, Education ConsultantJake Wilson, Education ConsultantLouise Wilson, Education ConsultantAlison Wineberg, Education ConsultantCONFERENCE COMMITTEEStudent Services Prevention and Wellness Team, DPI, Team DirectoryBHSS 2023CONFERENCE NOTESTracy Herlitzke, Center DirectorAlissa Darin, Regional Coordinator - Eastern Region (CESAs 1, 7, & 8)Jenny Holle, Regional Coordinator - Southern Region (CESAs 2, 3 & 6)Lynn Verage, Regional Coordinator - Northern Region (CESAs 9, 5 & 12)Carol Zabel, Regional Coordinator - Western Region (CESAs 10, 4 & 11)Katharine Reid, Statewide Project CoordinatorAlie Hubing, Project CoordinatorKalli Rasmussen, Communications and Project CoordinatorWisconsin Safe & Healthy Schools Center - Team Directory32

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To our school and organizational presenters, we are grateful for the valuable knowledge you shared.Your participation at the 2023 BHSS Conference is truly valued. Thank you!Contributing PresentersDerek Francis, Minneapolis Public SchoolsMadeline Tolkan Conrad, CESA 9Angie Pliska, CESA 9Susan Williams, WI DOJ-Office of School SafetySoumya Palreddy, Palreddy Lowe Learning LabIan Lowe, Palreddy Lowe Learning LabAmanda Florence Goodenough, GoodEnough ConsultingKathy Markeland, WAFCAJulie Heller, Racine Unified School DistrictLaura Staats, Children’s WisconsinLynn Cook, WI DOJ-Office of Crime Victim ServicesDr. Rainey Briggs, School District of BarabooTara Allert, Gundersen Health SystemTracy Caravella, School District of La CrosseJamie Ganske, Chippewa Falls Unified School DistrictPatrick Uselding, Rogers Behavioral HealthKimberly Johnson, Rogers Behavioral HealthBrittney Fair, Rogers Behavioral HealthNaQuisha Mann, Fond du Lac School DistrictScott Bakkum, Kettle Morraine School DistrictAlissa Darin, Wisconsin Safe & Healthy Schools CenterMolly Herrmann, WI DPIBrian Juchems, GSAFEMichael Altekruse, Neenah Joint School DistrictKaren Spann-Turner, Milwaukee Public SchoolsMegan Wright, Milwaukee Public SchoolsJenny Holle, Wisconsin Safe & Healthy Schools CenterKatharine Reid, Wisconsin Safe & Healthy Schools CenterAdam Nowak, Lakeland Consortium School DistrictJoshua Schroeder, Lakeland Consortium School DistrictKristie Johns, WI Family TiesTara Tindall, Madison Metro School DistrictShaya Schreiber, Madison Metro School DistrictDebbie Moellendorf, UW-Madison ExtensionAllie Libby, Merrill Area Public SchoolsTrisha Kubichek, Merrill Area Public SchoolsLibby Strunz, WI DPIDr. Elijah NicholasJennifer Paine, Women & Children’s HorizonsCindy Czarnik-Neimeyer, Catalpa Health & Appleton Area School DistrictChris Wardlow, Catalpa Health & Outagamie CountyJohn Fournelle, Horizon High SchoolTracy Goll, Horizon High SchoolMadeline Brown, Horizon High SchoolTo Hinckley Productions, the team behind our conference recording technology, we extend our appreciation for yourcontinuous support and expert guidance. Your contribution has played an important role in the success of this year’sconference.WITH APPRECIATIONBHSS 2023CONFERENCE NOTESMark your calendar for the 2024Building the Heart of SuccessfulSchools Conference - scheduledfor December 5, 2024 withpre-conference sessionsDecember 4, 2024.Save the date for 2024!Would you like to showcase yourexperiences at the BHSSConference on December 5, 2024?Provide your contact informationin the evaluation comments, orkeep an eye out for the Call forProposals in the spring.33

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Your feedback is important! The evaluation links will be emailed at the end of thepre-conference and conference days or scan the QR codes below for access.In appreciation, for every conference evaluation submitted, the WISH Center willdonate to an important cause in Wisconsin. See the evaluation form for moredetails. Please submit your feedback by December 15, 2023.EVALUATIONSPre-conference & Conference EvaluationsBHSS 2023CONFERENCE NOTESDefinition of Affinity Group, fromgreatschoolspartnership.org: a form of professional learningwhere a group of people sharing common identities gatherwith the intention of finding connection, support, andinspiration.The BHSS Conference plans to continue to engageeducators and grow the offerings for affinity spaces at futureconferences for groups to connect and share. Theconference planning committee will partner with educatorsto lead engagement in these spaces.Please share your suggestions for group affinity spaces youwould like to see at future conferences on the conferenceevaluation. **Special request for feedback for Affinity Groups**Reach out to Katharine Reid with any feedback, comments, or questionsregarding the conference evaluations at kreid@cesa4.org34