Durham Public Schools PL

Presenters: Laura Weatherly | [email protected] | School Counselor; Ashley Altman | [email protected] | School Counselor; Colleen Robinson | [email protected] | Instructional Coach
Location: Forest View Elementary School Media Center
Description: This session will introduce staff to the Character Strong SEL curriculum, a research-based program designed to build both social-emotional skills and character in students. Participants will explore the curriculum’s structure, key focus areas, and practical strategies for weaving SEL into everyday instruction. The session will highlight the importance of “connection before content” and equip staff with tools to create safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environments that foster empathy, resilience, and strong relationships.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Social Emotional
Targeted Instructional Grades: Pre-K, 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: All Roles (Non-Specific)

Presenters: Gloria Sanchez | [email protected] | SEL & Mental Health Coordinator
Location: Hillandale Elementary School Media Center
Description: Trauma-informed school training will teach staff the knowledge, skills, and mindset to create a safe, supportive, and inclusive learning environment for all students, particularly those who may have experienced trauma. This involves understanding the impact of trauma on learning and behavior, recognizing trauma symptoms, and implementing evidence-based practices to promote healing and resilience.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Culturally Responsive Practices, Social Emotional, Student Wellness and Advocacy, Communication Skills
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: Assistants, Instructional Coaches, Office Assistants, Receptionists, Social Workers, Speech Language Pathologists, Bus Drivers, Custodians, Data Managers, Instructional Assistants, Interpreters, Itinerant Teachers, Nurses, Physical Therapists, Principals, School Counselors, Secretaries, Substitute Teachers, Teachers

Presenters: Abby | [email protected] | MTSS
Location: Club Boulevard Elementary Media Center
Description: The teachers serving on the leadership team will meet to discuss the school's most pressing needs. During these meetings, they will ask thoughtful questions, share feedback from their grade-level teams, and contribute valuable teacher input to help guide schoolwide decision-making.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Culturally Responsive Practices
Targeted Instructional Grades: 1st Grade, 3rd Grade, 5th Grade, Kindergarten, 2nd Grade, 4th Grade
Targeted Roles: All Roles (Non-Specific)

Presenters: Amy Miller | [email protected] | Director
Location: Fayetteville Street Elementary School TBD
Description: Participants will learn the key elements of a RP framework. They will have time to create a proactive circle plan for the first week of school.
Subject Area(s): *None (Non-Instructional)
Topic(s): Social Emotional, Equity
Targeted Instructional Grades: *None (Non-Instructional)
Targeted Roles: All Roles (Non-Specific)