California Center for School Climate (CCSC)

As the second half of the school year gets underway, many students and staff struggle with motivation, self-efficacy, and just showing up. After the winter break, some may come back rested and rejuvenated while others may feel overwhelmed. How can we care for ourselves and others in a way that is manageable, uplifting, and connecting so that students and adults feel supported as part of a community?

Join the California Center for School Climate and other educators to discuss how you can increase connection, and thus well-being, for yourself, team members, and the students you serve. School counselor and family coach Melissa Saunders will ground us in theory and share a specific practice that you can implement immediately—individually or as a school community—to support a struggling student or colleague while improving your own experience at work.

Participants will have the opportunity to gain practical strategies, as well as share their own successes and challenges, in small and large groups with peers from across the state.

Presenting field partner: Melissa Saunders has worked in public education for over 20 years. She started her career as a classroom teacher and has had the opportunity to serve students and families in numerous other roles at both the site and district level as a school counselor, special education liaison, and intervention lead. She has specialized training and expertise in MTSS, PBIS, social–emotional and behavioral interventions, LGBTQ youth, trauma-informed practices, restorative practices, crisis intervention, and mental health. Her professional passion is creating systems and structures to support the needs of all students. Currently, Melissa works part-time as a school counselor and sees clients for family coaching and counseling. You can learn more about her work at: www.melissasaunders.com.

Highlighted Resources:

• The Two-Minute Relationship Builder
• Peer Learning Exchange slides