As a result of the pandemic, our typical approach to schooling was completely upended. It is also clear that many of the inequities that already existed were exacerbated and more obvious than in times past. Even with herculean efforts by many school leaders, the pandemic left our school communities in need of both care and intentional plans to reimagine how we serve our students and staff.
The goal of this workshop is to equip leaders, as they reopen schools and seek to create a sense of normalcy, with practical strategies that create inclusive school communities. It is critical to engage our students, staff, and families in this process to reach this goal. It is also imperative to provide leaders with a foundation in communication and conflict management skills to add to their existing toolkit as navigating various dynamics is inevitable post-pandemic. It should also be noted that many of the themes highlighted in this workshop will be universal concepts that can be applied to all areas of their leadership.
In this workshop, participants will: Learn the conflict management process (highlighting the Conflict Resolution Cycle that includes identifying the People, Problem You are Trying to Address, Creating Conditions for Safe Dialogue with Stakeholders, and Creative Problem Solving)
Learn powerful active listening strategies (Including- paraphrasing, sustained dialogue, reframing language because words matter, and fact-finding v.feeling finding)
Learn strategies for building inclusive school communities (with an emphasis on restorative practices-including mindful moments, RJ circles with all stakeholders, effective meetings, and, decision-making protocols)