In the United States, suicide is the 2nd leasing cause of death for teens and adolescents. Because kids spend a large amount of time within our school settings, we have a responsibility to serve as the first line of defense in preventing loss of life due to suicide. In this session, best practices for suicide prevention will be discussed through a multi-tiered approach. Speaking through the lens of a unique and effective role as a suicide prevention specialist social worker within the building and district, the presenter will cover the topics of suicidality, risk screening and assessment, risk-related decision making, legal precedent, and tips for feasible prevention practices in order to increase your understanding of suicide and what practical changes can be made within your buildings and/or direct work with students to improve student safety and wellness.
Student Support Specialist/ Pediatric Clinical Therapist, St. Charles School District 303/ Little Indigo Child & Family Therapy
Owner of her own private pediatric clinical therapy practice specializing in anxiety and mood regulation in adolescents and teens, Kameron also works in a middle school social work specialist role, focused on safety and suicide prevention and intervention. With over 16 years of experience... Read More →
Multilingual learners (MLLs) often bring rich cultural experiences to the classroom but may also carry the weight of trauma, whether from migration, displacement, or other life experiences. This breakout session equips educators and school staff with trauma-informed strategies specifically tailored to the unique needs of MLLs. Participants will explore how to create safe, supportive, and inclusive environments that promote healing and learning for students navigating the dual challenges of trauma and language acquisition.
Assistant Professor of Education, Rockford University
Dr. Terri Easter is an Assistant Professor of Education at Rockford University and the Director of ESL/Bilingual Studies. With over a decade of experience teaching English learners, including in Title I schools and internationally, she brings a global perspective to creating equitable... Read More →
