Durham Public Schools PL

Presenters: Melissa Watson | melissa_watson@dpsnc.net | Director of Student Alternatives and Supports; Darlene Hampton | darlene_hampton@dpsnc.net | District Family Liaison
Location: Hillside High School Room 110
Description: In every classroom, there are students whose success depends on more than just instruction—it depends on access, advocacy, and consistent support. This session will equip teachers with practical strategies for supporting students who have 504 plans or are in foster care, helping ensure their needs are met both legally and compassionately. Educators will learn how to recognize signs of unmet needs, navigate accommodations more effectively, and build collaborative systems with support staff and families. Through real-life examples and tools, teachers will leave better prepared to create classroom environments where these students can thrive.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Communication Skills, Equity, School Counselors, Social Emotional, Culturally Responsive Practices, School Social Work
Targeted Instructional Grades: Pre-K, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 11th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Interpreters, Principals, School Counselors, Translators, Interventionists, Social Workers, Teachers

Presenters: Melissa Watson | melissa_watson@dpsnc.net | Director of Student Alternatives and Supports; Darlene Hampton | darlene_hampton@dpsnc.net | District Family Liaison
Location: Hillside High School Room 110
Description: In every classroom, there are students whose success depends on more than just instruction—it depends on access, advocacy, and consistent support. This session will equip teachers with practical strategies for supporting students who have 504 plans or are in foster care, helping ensure their needs are met both legally and compassionately. Educators will learn how to recognize signs of unmet needs, navigate accommodations more effectively, and build collaborative systems with support staff and families. Through real-life examples and tools, teachers will leave better prepared to create classroom environments where these students can thrive.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Communication Skills, Equity, School Counselors, Social Emotional, Culturally Responsive Practices, School Social Work
Targeted Instructional Grades: Pre-K, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, 7th Grade, 9th Grade, 11th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade, 6th Grade, 8th Grade, 10th Grade, 12th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistant Principals, Interpreters, Principals, School Counselors, Translators, Interventionists, Social Workers, Teachers