MART MTS PD Day - Empowering Educators Series

Register here: https://memberlink.mbteach.org/Event.axd?e=2787

1A - Building Trauma Resilient Schools

Students who have experienced trauma and/or adverse life events often struggle to regulate emotions, behaviours and attention, which in turn interferes with learning. This training is based on evidence-informed research and practice and is intended for all school staff who are looking to increase their understanding of the impacts of trauma and adversity, and how to best support students and families.
Participants will learn how to cultivate trauma-informed,resilient school environments that improve learning outcomes and enhance student, family and community well-being.

Participants will be presented information on:
- What is trauma? What are adverse childhood experiences (ACES)?
- Prevalence and impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences on brain development,the body, emotions, behaviours, self-regulation, self-concept, relationships and learning.
- How trauma-informed resilient practices at school increase numeracy and literacy.
- Seven key trauma-informed principles schools can use to foster student, family and staff resilience in the face of adversity.
- Strategies for implementing practical, trauma-informed practices in the classroom and school setting that WORK! (e.g., what does a trauma-informed classroom/school setting look like, the window of tolerance, self-regulation, co-regulation, fostering safety, trust and positive relationships, and more)
- Understanding and responding effectively to challenging behaviour and trauma responses,through a trauma-informed lens.

Presenters: Fiona England & Michelle Diawol-Strongman

Fiona England, RSW is a passionate and energetic school social worker who is excited to share her knowledge about mental health and how mental wellness can be integrated into all aspects of our school communities. Fiona strives to share her 25 years of experiences both within schools and child welfare to create trauma-resient spaces for our children, youth and families. She is currently the Healthy Minds Specialist for Winnipeg School Division and has over 17 years of experience providing specialized seminars and learning opportunities on several topics such as child welfare legislation, children in care, safeTALK, mental health literacy, trauma, anxiety/depression, staff wellness and mindfulness. Fiona believes in a child-centred, systemic approach to supporting and enhancing your safe and caring schools.

Michelle Diawol-Strongman is a school psychologist and therapist. She has worked with the Winnipeg School Division for 22 years and in private practice for 16. She is a Trauma-Informed Education Content Creator. Her professional interests and practice include trauma informed practice, vicarious trauma and compassion fatigue, stress and anxiety, ADHD, positive psychology, mindfulness, and acceptance. Michelle is honoured to work with educators and believes schools are in a powerful position to provide students, families and communities with the mechanisms that foster resiliency, hope and empowerment. She is a strong advocate for resilience and mental health.

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location: Victoria Inn Hotel and Conference Centre, 1808 Wellington Avenue, Winnipeg, MB

Participant Max: 100

1B - Building Relationships with Complex Youth

Connecting to and creating meaningful relationships with children with mental health or other disabilities and complex needs can be difficult. Learn with Angela Taylor, a former child in care labelled with complex needs, caregiver of children with exceptional needs, and founder of Inspire Community Outreach.

OBJECTIVES
- Understanding the hidden reality of children with disabilities/sensitivities, including trauma and complex needs.
- Reframing neurological, cognitive, and psychological disabilities to invite understanding and celebration of neurodiversity and differences.
- Exploring the intersectionality of disability, attachment, and development.
- Working within limited resources to maximize connection and well-being.
- Child engagement and inclusive support adapted for and by families who include children with disabilities.

Presenter: Angela Taylor

Angela Taylor is a mental health and accessibility expert, who lives on treaty 1 territory. She is a PhD Candidate, multiply neurodivergent, a mother to 4, author, artist and community helper. With 25 years of experience in social services, supporting complex populations, she has consulted with various government, private, and nonprofit organizations. She is the co-author of "All Kinds of Minds" and lead writer of "Get Your Art On! An Art for Wellness Facilitation Guide." She has authored "Forever on Fire, a Love Letter to Never Fitting in" and "Rewriting 40, choosing Life, Even When it’s Hard."

Founder of Canadian Charity Inspire Community Outreach and organization Supporting Community Together, growing capacity in supporting complexity in community, and consults for multiple charities across Canada.

Time: 9:00 am - 3:30 pm

Location: Virtual

Participant Max: 1000