2026 Summer Symposium

Relationships are often cited as the heart of effective schools—but too often, relationship-building exists as isolated strategies rather than intentional, sustainable systems. This session explores how schools can move beyond individual practices to create cohesive, school-wide structures that prioritize connection, collective efficacy, and shared responsibility for student and staff well-being.


Grounded in evidence-based SEL and leadership research, participants will examine how relational practices can be embedded into existing systems such as behavior supports, instructional routines, professional learning communities, and staff collaboration structures. Through real-world scenarios and guided reflection, attendees will identify leverage points within their own schools to strengthen relational culture without adding “one more thing” to already full plates.


Participants will leave with practical tools to assess current systems, align relational practices across roles, and design next steps that elevate the collective impact of educators—because sustainable change happens when we lead together.

They tell us work-life balance exists, but for most educators, it feels like a mythical creature—often talked about, but never actually seen. Between meeting the critical needs of your students and the mental weight that it carries, the boundary between work and personal life doesn’t just blur—it can altogether disappear. We will unpack the hidden pitfalls that drain your time, implement SEL strategies to settle classroom chaos, and create a practical self-care protocol. Join this interactive session to start developing a sustainable work-life balance today!

In this session, we'll explore the power of vulnerability and connecting in the PK-12 grade classroom. By reading aloud my short story, "Joyce, Joyce...There's Power In Your Voice," we'll step into the shoes of an African American student navigating educational spaces while learning how moments of silence can hold profound lessons. We'll discuss what it takes to engage both our quietest and most vocal students and reflect on how positive, authentic student teacher relationships can create a sense of belonging and trust. Together, we'll uncover practical strategies and craft action plans to implement TWO specific techniques that will amplify student voice in your classroom. 

This interactive session explores how co-regulation supports brain development, emotional regulation, and learning readiness in educational environments. Participants will examine how social experiences, adult presence, and environmental supports shape students’ nervous systems, particularly during times of stress or dysregulation.


Through guided discussion and practical examples, participants will learn how educators act as external regulators and how intentional co-regulation strategies can resource safety, connection, and engagement.