Cultivating Your Allies: Creating Collaborative Relationships With Families
2025-03-11 15:45 - 17:15 (America/Chicago)
Presented by Tracey Serve with Crescent Educational Consultants
In this intensive 90-minute workshop, educators and youth workers will learn to recognize the early signs of burnout and develop proactive strategies to reboot their well-being. Moving beyond basic self-care tips, this workshop emphasizes actionable steps and systemic approaches to refreshing your professional outlook, focusing on both individual and organizational strategies. Participants will leave with a toolkit of resources to help them thrive in their demanding roles, ready to hit “refresh” on their wellness journey.

https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/4oYcBNmrQDyhAvQU_2auDw

Nurturing a Positive Racial Identity in Black Children
2025-03-08 10:00 - 12:00, 2025-03-06 18:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago)
Event Webpage
How do I raise a black child with a positive racial identity? What factors influence their self-perception and identity development? And how do I contribute to their growth as a caregiver? Join us for a 2 hour workshop as we explore these topics together and spend time asking questions, sharing stories, and practicing relevant skills. This workshop is for any caregiver that plays a meaningful role with a black child or black children, either at home, in the classroom, or other spaces. Parents, guardians, educators, and all caregivers welcome!
The workshop will be led by Dr. Nicol Russell. Nicol identifies as black and indigenous Hawiian. She has done incredible work with and on the behalf of young children as a teacher, childcare center director, professional development coordinator, state director of special education, state deputy superintendent of early childhood education, educational researcher, and as a speaker and trainer.
Pricing & Logistics
Thanks to our generous donors, the participation cost is $100, with a sliding scale payment option of $50 to $150. If the cost is prohibitive, please contact us at earlychildhood@embracerace.org for scholarship. Please note that registration is non-refundable and non-transferable.
**Certificates of Completion available upon request.
Questions? Reach out to us at earlychildhood@embracerace.org.

I GOT THIS! Stress Management for educators 1.0 CEU
2025-03-05 15:45 - 17:15 (America/Chicago)
Overwhelmed? Let’s talk about it: what stress is, what causes it, how it manifests in the body, and then some ways to counteract it and some ways to prevent it. This session will be self-reflective with time for participants to work through their own situations and develop plans to help them move forward.
Facilitated by SEL/Mindfulness Coach Matt Weld
https://tinyurl.com/py5bhc8d or https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/XIGzpf97RnWyQ0p0fCaYhg

BHT Readiness Session
2025-03-04 10:00 - 10:30 (America/Chicago)
REGISTRATION: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScpTpR0r6q40AYGjcu7CgNQuzuONuAjSsdb0K3yk8QEMvG85Q/viewform
If you have any questions regarding this training, please contact Jovan Nikki Seals, Sr. Program Coordinator, CCR at jnseals@luriechildrens.org.
VIRTUAL TRAINING. This overview of BHT teams can inform schools’ decisions regarding their readiness to introduce BHTs into their existing system of support.
This course is an introduction to building systems of care within schools, working with a multidisciplinary team. The work of the team utilizes the MTSS and trauma responsive framework. Participants will learn to identify and connect students with the appropriate level of care and interventions to be delivered in schools. Convening the Behavioral Health Team brings together administrators, clinical staff, and community partners for student-focused discussions and collaboration. The content engages participants to deepen their understanding of their roles and responsibilities in this process.
Overall, the REACH Out BHT initiative aims to increase student access to evidence-based and culturally relevant trauma support services and mental health care through innovative initiatives, activities and programs to link local school systems with local trauma-informed support and mental health systems. These elements of trauma-informed practices have direct application to the ISBE Social and Emotional Learning standards as they provide school staff with tools to help students identify and manage their emotions and behaviors by elevating teams to provide tailored support. This learning fulfills ISBE professional development opportunity for 105 ILCS 21B-25(h)-1, 2 and 10.
For additional information, email REACH@luriechildrens.org
This meeting will be conducted by:
Tara Gill, PhD, Mental Health Consultant, Center for Childhood Resilience – Dr. Tara Gill is a Clinical Psychologist who has consulted with schools and community organizations that promotes youth mental health awareness and healing centered frameworks for over 15 years. Her work as a trainer, educator, and consultant is grounded in equity. Dr. Gill has particular interests in creating change in systems and in youth workforce development.
Catherine Huang, LCSW- Mental Health Consultant, Center for Childhood Resilience – Catherine Huang, a licensed clinical social worker, brings over a decade of experience in school and community settings, specializing in school-based social work. Her expertise revolves around training and facilitating the implementation of evidence-based interventions through a comprehensive Multi-Tiered Systems of Supports (MTSS). Collaborating closely with school districts and teams, she plays a key role in fostering the development and sustainability of Behavioral Health Teams (BHTs).
Maury Prieto, MSW- Mental Health Consultant, Center for Childhood Resilience – Maury Prieto is a social worker who has over 10 years of experience working with youth in school and community settings. She worked as a school social worker for 8 years in the Chicagoland area centering her work serving K-8 students and addressing social emotional needs.
The TISS-REACH Out initiative is specifically designed to support schools in Areas 1 and 6. While we accept registrants from any area in our state, priority will be given to registrants in these two areas. Remaining slots will be given to those registrants in all other areas.
If you have any questions regarding this training, please contact Jovan Nikki Seals, Sr. Program Coordinator, CCR at jnseals@luriechildrens.org.

Federal Special Education Law - What May Happen, Why it Matters, and What you Can Do To Fight Back and to Protect Your Student(s)
2025-02-26 12:00 - 13:00 (America/Chicago)
Join Matt Cohen as he discusses the proposed Federal changes to the Department of Education, what the impact will be, and what can be done about it.
Webinar Registration – Zoom

Empowering Glitter Brains
2025-02-18 15:45 - 17:15 (America/New_York)
Presented by Megan Ragan with the Southern Illinois Resource and Advocacy Center

This session will discuss neurodiversity from a strengths-based perspective and will provide strategies to support, enhance, and empower resilient neurodivergent brains in the school and work setting.
1. Participants will gain an understanding of the term “neurodivergence” and how it may apply to their student populations.
2. Participants will identify three positive characteristics or strengths associated with neurodiversity.
3. Participants will identify three strategies for creating a more supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

Empowering Diverse Learners Through Storytelling and Dialogue
2025-02-12 15:45 - 17:15 (America/New_York)
Presented by Sheila Arad and Bari Levin with the I AM Able Foundation.

Participants will explore easy-to-implement tools to empower diverse learners through storytelling and dialogue and to build empathy and awareness within the classroom community. These resources include but are not limited to the “We All Learn Differently Playbook” and the children’s book “A Different Lens”.

HEART Summit 2025
2025-02-12 08:30 - 15:30 (America/Chicago)
In an era marked by increasing demands and challenges, educator stress has never been higher. The “Healing Educators and Responding to Trauma” (HEART) online conference explores the profound impact of trauma on both students and educators. Participants will engage in dynamic interactive sessions, with both local and national thought leaders on well-being and balance.
Drawing on research, best practices, and personal narratives, this conference equips attendees with the knowledge and tools necessary to build resilience and prioritize their well-being to be the best version of themselves for their families AND their students.. Join us at this conference to reignite your passion for education and begin a journey of healing, reflection, and personal growth.
Location: Online
Individual Price: $25.00
Credit Options: Professional Development Hours (PDH), College Credits Available, CEU
Contact Hours: 6

Making Connections - Battling School Avoidance
2025-02-11 15:30 - 16:45 (America/Chicago)
Explore school avoidance, its signs, causes, and effective strategies for management. Participants will gain insights into supporting student resilience and mental health, particularly in the classroom setting. The session will conclude with a 15-minute interactive Q&A, providing an opportunity to engage with experts and address specific concerns.
Facilitators:
Sonam Vyas, M.D.– Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago & McGaw Medical Center at Northwestern University
Nikita Patel, M.D. – Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellow at Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago & McGaw Medical Center at Northwestern University
1.0 hour CEU / PEL available
Registration: https://form.jotform.com/242665193848065
2025-0211-MC (1)

Communities of Practice Information Session #2
2025-02-11 15:30 - 16:30 (America/Chicago)
Interested and want to learn more about RSSI REACH CoPs? Join our informational session where we will discuss the structure, time commitment, and answer questions from interested participants.

Restorative Education 101: A Focus on a Comprehensive Approach
2025-02-05 15:45 - 17:15 (America/Chicago)
Even a decade after SB 100, the term “restorative justice” is often misunderstood. A whole school, comprehensive approach that prioritizes proactive practices leads to improved school climate and academic achievement and overall, well-being. In this Bite-Sized PD session, learn about the foundations of restorative justice, both proactive and responsive practices and, how it dovetails with social and emotional skills development, and short-term and longer-term strategies for putting it to use. Session 2 will focus on short- and long-term processes to address and repair harm.
Meeting Registration – Zoom
Flyer

Understanding the IEP for Educators (General Ed. Teachers & Paraprofessionals)
2025-02-04 15:45 - 17:15 (America/New_York)
Presented by Crissy Mombela, M. Ed. Director of Programs and Initiatives for the Partnership for Resilience
Have you ever wondered how you are going to honor all the accommodations and modifications of the students’ IEP in your classroom? In this session, we will discuss ways to ensure accommodations and modifications are implemented within the general education classroom. Activities and strategies will focus on collaboration, student voice, and empowerment for all parties involved. The IEP tells a story and a general education teacher is an important part of that story. Grab your favorite pens, highlighters and notebooks to dive in and support one another in this process.

Communities of Practice Information Session #1
2025-02-03 09:00 - 10:00 (America/Chicago)

Practical Approaches to Amplifying Youth Voice: Strengthening Youth & Adult Connections
2025-01-28 15:30 - 17:00 (America/Chicago)
Presented by Jessica Juarez, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, and Fausto Alejandro López, M.Ed. with Praxis Institute

In this bite-sized workshop, we’ll explore practical approaches to amplifying youth voice in ways that strengthen meaningful connections between young people and adults. Participants will learn how to create spaces where youth feel secure and are empowered to share their experiences, fostering trust and mutual respect in schools and classrooms. The session will dive into strategies for using youth voice to gain insights into youth developmental experiences, including life challenges (e.g., ACE’s) and transitions. Participants will walk away with actionable tools to build stronger developmental relationships that cultivate a positive school climate where youth and adults can thrive together.

Trauma-Informed Design
2025-01-15 11:30 - 12:30 (America/Chicago) | THE MART Art Gallery, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Suite 14-127, Chicago, IL, 60654
Our physical environment can impact our emotions and behaviors, both negatively and positively. It has the ability to increase or reduce our stress levels. The spaces in which we live and receive services should communicate safety and promote supportive relationships. Otherwise, they can symbolize lack of dignity and agency, which is further intensified for individuals who have experienced trauma. This session will examine how Trauma-informed Design (TiD) can be used to create physical spaces that promote safety, resilience, and healing. Attendees will be introduced to our current understanding of trauma, how it can impact a person, and explore ways in which the built environment can exacerbate or alleviate those impacts.

Executive Functioning - It’s More Than Just Being Organized
2025-01-14 15:45 - 17:15 (America/Chicago)
Presented by Dr. Karen Dudek-Brannan with Dr. Karen, LLC.

Join us for an engaging session designed to deepen your understanding of executive functioning and its impact on students’ academic, social, and emotional success. We’ll explore the external signs and internal mental processes that shape executive functioning, examine the connection between anxiety, executive functioning, and behavior, and evaluate the effectiveness of common tools like talk therapy, social skills groups, checklists, and planners.

Restorative/Transformative Practices 101: Understanding the Foundations and the Impact
2024-12-04 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Since the passage of SB 100 a decade ago, the term “restorative justice” has become commonplace. Still many people do not fully understand what this needs- and values-based set of practices is and how to use it to build community and address harm in schools. In this Bite-Sized PD session, learn about the foundations of restorative justice, how it dovetails with social and emotional skills development, and short-term and longer-term strategies for putting it to use.

Presented by Sarah Schriber with Reimagine Justice Illinois
1.5 PDHs or CEUs are offered

Click HERE to view the entire Fall 2024 Bite-Size Series!
For questions or registration assistance, please get in touch with RPowell@partnership4resilience.org or aheern@partnership4resilience.org

Inclusive Classrooms: Leveraging Student Engagement & Boosting Student Motivation
2024-11-19 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
This interactive session will delve into practical strategies for cultivating a welcoming and affirming environment that empowers all learners, regardless of their backgrounds or abilities. Participants will explore inclusive and culturally responsive teaching approaches that actively incorporate student voices and choices into the learning process. Through engaging in collaborative activities and discussions, participants will uncover actionable insights for adapting their teaching practices to foster inclusivity. By focusing on building strong relationships and creating a sense of belonging, this session aims to enhance student engagement and motivation, equipping participants with the tools needed to create classrooms where every student can thrive.

Presented by Dra. Alexandra Escobar of Affirming Voices
1.5 PDHs or CEUs are offered

Click HERE to view the entire Fall 2024 Bite-Size Series!
For questions or registration assistance, please get in touch with RPowell@partnership4resilience.org or aheern@partnership4resilience.org

Think First: Empowering Students with Anger Management Skills
2024-11-18 09:00 - 2024-11-20 13:00 (America/New_York)
Think First Flyer
Think First is an evidence-based group intervention designed for high school students (grades 9-12) to develop essential anger management and conflict resolution skills. Through 15 engaging sessions, students learn to manage triggers, recognize anger cues, and practice self-calming techniques.
This 12-hour clinician training provides comprehensive instruction on delivering the Think First program. Participants receive session-by-session guidance, skill demonstrations, coaching, and best practices for effective implementation, ensuring they are fully equipped to lead successful interventions.
Presented by Lurie’s Center for Childhood Resilience in collaboration with TISS-Reachout grant offered by Illinois State Board of Education and West40 ISC.

The Wellness Reboot: Ctrl+Alt+Del for the Overwhelmed Professional
2024-11-07 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
In this intensive 90-minute workshop, educators and youth workers will learn to recognize the early signs of burnout and develop proactive strategies to reboot their well-being. Moving beyond basic self-care tips, this workshop emphasizes actionable steps and systemic approaches to refreshing your professional outlook, focusing on both individual and organizational strategies. Participants will leave with a toolkit of resources to help them thrive in their demanding roles, ready to hit “refresh” on their wellness journey.

Presented by Jessica Juarez, M.Ed., LPC, NCC, and Fausto Alejandro López, M.Ed. with Praxis Institute
1.5 PDHs or CEUs are offered

Click HERE to view the entire Fall 2024 Bite-Size Series!
For questions or registration assistance, please get in touch with RPowell@partnership4resilience.org or aheern@partnership4resilience.org

School Bullying vs. Peer Conflict: Best Practices for Interruption
2024-10-22 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
In education, we discuss school bullying often and yet it persists, with devastating immediate and life-long consequences. Often adults and students do not intervene because they are unsure whether the behavior they’re witnessing is bullying, conflict, or harmless teasing. In this Bite-Sized PD session, learn about the distinctions among these behaviors and best practices for addressing negative behaviors.

Presented by Sarah Schriber with Reimagine Justice Illinois
1.5 PDHs or CEUs are offered

Click HERE to view the entire Fall 2024 Bite-Size Series!
For questions or registration assistance, please get in touch with RPowell@partnership4resilience.org or aheern@partnership4resilience.org

Strengthening MTSS with Trauma-Informed Practices
2024-10-15 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
Trauma negatively impacts students and staff’s ability to thrive in school. This Bite-Size PD will examine different types of trauma and the three characteristics of a trauma-informed strategy. We will then discuss a practical trauma prevention and intervention protocol you can use to enhance all tiers of your school’s MTSS.

Presented by Crissy Mombela, M.Ed. with the Partnership for Resilience and Sarah Schriber with Reimagine Justice Illinois
1.5 PDHs or CEUs are offered

Click HERE to view the entire Fall 2024 Bite-Size Series!
For questions or registration assistance, please get in touch with RPowell@partnership4resilience.org or aheern@partnership4resilience.org

Managing ADHD: Recognizing and supporting students in the class setting
2024-10-08 15:30 - 17:00 (America/New_York)
