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5th Annual RC SELPA Mental Health Symposium: Mental Health...
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Tuesday, May 13
 

10:15am PDT

Developing a Comprehensive ERMHS Manual & Program
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This panel will explore the development of an ERMHS manual and program from conception to implementation. Experts in ERMHS, program development, and district leadership will guide participants through best practices, team collaboration strategies, and alignment with district vision and mission.

Outcomes:
Understanding how to effectively collaborate as a team to develop an ERMHS manual. Learning best practices for initiating, refining, and finalizing a comprehensive ERMHS program. Exploring how to align the ERMHS program with district goals, vision, and mission for maximum impact.
Speakers
avatar for Rocio Drye

Rocio Drye

Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School District
Rocio Drye is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Pupil Personnel Service Credential. She earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from California State University, Fullerton, and her Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology from the University of California, San Diego. With... Read More →
avatar for Tricia Favela

Tricia Favela

Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School District
Tricia Favela, LCSW Mental Health Therapist, Banning Unified School DistrictTricia Favela is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who earned her Master of Social Work degree from California State University, San Bernardino in 2016. She began her career in Child Welfare, supporting children... Read More →
avatar for Timothy Worthington

Timothy Worthington

Special Education Director, Banning Unified School District
With nearly three decades of dedicated service in education, Mr. Worthington  is a passionate and results-driven leader specializing in special education, alternative education, and general education. Currently serving as the Director of Special Education at Banning Unified School... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom B

10:15am PDT

Enhancing Academic Success Through Positive School Culture
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
This presentation will explore strategies for enhancing academic success by fostering a positive school culture. We will delve into the impact of a supportive and inclusive school environment on student and staff motivation, engagement, and overall academic performance. The session will highlight practical approaches for cultivating a culture that emphasizes respect, collaboration, and growth, both for students and staff. By creating a sense of belonging and encouragement, schools can increase academic achievement and well-being for everyone involved.

Outcomes:
  1. Understanding of Positive School Culture: Attendees will gain insights into the key elements that define a positive school culture and its direct link to improved academic performance.
  2. Strategies for Fostering Inclusion and Respect: Practical methods for building an inclusive environment where students and staff feel valued, supported, and motivated to succeed.
  3. Enhancing Student Engagement: Techniques to increase student involvement, engagement, and ownership of their learning through a positive and inspiring school environment.
  4. Improved Teacher-Student Relationships: How cultivating strong, positive relationships between teachers and students can enhance communication, trust, and academic outcomes.
  5. Actionable Plan for Creating a Positive Culture: A set of actionable steps for school leaders, teachers, and staff to implement in order to develop and sustain a positive school culture that enhances academic success.
  6. Measurement of Success: Tools and methods for tracking the progress and effectiveness of the initiatives to increase academic achievement through a positive school culture.
By the end of the session, participants will have a clearer understanding of how to leverage the power of school culture to drive academic improvement, foster student growth, and create a thriving educational environment.
Speakers
avatar for John Casamento

John Casamento

School Therapist & Guidance Counselor, Spectrum Schools
John Casamento was born and raised in Southern California. John received his bachelor’s degree in human services for child and adolescent development. John completed his master’s degree in clinical and educational counseling. John has approximately 20 years serving the community... Read More →
avatar for Ivy Webb

Ivy Webb

Program Director, Spectrum Schools
Ivy Webb is a proud New Jersey native with a strong educational background and over a decade of experience in Special Education. She holds a BS in Interdisciplinary Studies from Norfolk State University, a Special Education Certification from Old Dominion University, and a Collegiate... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 10:15am - 11:30am PDT
Ballroom A

12:45pm PDT

From Story to Stretch: Weaving Narratives Into an Elementary Yoga Program
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Discover how to implement a yoga program in elementary schools to support students’ mental well-being. Learn how to create engaging narratives, structure sessions, and use AI to generate themes and stories. This session provides practical strategies for mental health professionals to foster mindfulness, focus, and resilience in young learners through movement, breath, and storytelling.

Participants will learn how to implement a yoga program from scratch how to access AI to craft a fun, engaging narrative style yoga flow.
Speakers
avatar for Lena Abella-Saunders

Lena Abella-Saunders

School Psychologist, Menifee Union School District
Lena Abella-Saunders is a school counselor with 18 years in the field. Currently, she serves as an elementary counselor in the Menifee Union School District, following 12 years as a middle school counselor and 6 at the elementary level. In her previous role, Ms. Abella-Saunders developed... Read More →
avatar for Jared Saunders

Jared Saunders

School Psychologist, Val Verde Unified School District
Jared Saunders is a school psychologist working for Val Verde Unified School District. Currently, Dr. Saunders is serving his district as a “tiered intervention specialist” with a focus on developing sustainable tier 2 and tier 3 behavioral supports throughout the district. He... Read More →
Tuesday May 13, 2025 12:45pm - 2:00pm PDT
Ballroom B

2:15pm PDT

A Small, Rural School District’s Story in Integrating a Therapy Dog in the Educational Setting
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Desert Center Unified, a single-school district in Riverside County, California, has implemented a therapy dog program. This endeavor is now completing its second year, and we are seeing a significant positive impact on our elementary students. The initiative has enhanced emotional well-being, improved student engagement, and supported social development, creating a safe and nurturing environment for learning and growth.

Through this session, we aim to share the positive impact of our therapy dog program, providing participants with practical insights on how to implement similar initiatives in their own districts. Our desired outcomes include increasing awareness of the benefits of therapy animals in education, offering strategies for successful implementation, and inspiring educators and administrators to prioritize student mental health and well-being.
Speakers
avatar for Dr. Greg Sackos

Dr. Greg Sackos

Superintendent/Principal, Desert Center Unified School District
Dr. Greg Sackos is the Superintendent/Principal of Desert Center Unified School District, where he is entering his fifth year. Before this role, he held leadership positions in several Arizona school districts, including superintendent roles in Morristown, Bouse, Salt River Pima Maricopa... Read More →
avatar for Shauna Petersen

Shauna Petersen

Teacher, Desert Center Unified School District
Shauna Petersen is a TK through second grade teacher at Desert Center Unified School District. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education/Early Childhood Development from the University of Wisconsin–River Falls, and recently earned her Master’s degree in Educational... Read More →
avatar for Mireyah Mendoza

Mireyah Mendoza

Student, Desert Center Unified School District
8t Grade Student at Desert Center Unified School District.
Tuesday May 13, 2025 2:15pm - 3:30pm PDT
Meeting Rooms 9 & 10
 
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