Center for Safe Schools webinar shares ways to connect with students virtually and prepare for the new normal.
HARRISBURG, Pa., March 26, 2020 — On Tuesday, Center for Safe Schools presented the “Bullying Prevention and SEL: What Can I Do Now?” webinar for an overview of best practices in social emotional learning and bullying prevention. Led by Leah Galkowski, coordinator at Center for Safe Schools, the high quality online professional development event hosted 227 participants from 12 states and Canada; and is now available as a free recording for on-demand viewing.
Research tells us that evidence-based practices in social emotional learning and bullying prevention help students to be successful in school. However, educators and others working with youth need to know what this really looks like in practice.
“Teachers are desperately seeking ways to connect with their students during this time when the school year and life has been dramatically impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic,” Galkowski said. It is essential that we are able to translate best practices into online formats.”
During the webinar, participants learned strategies to use in building a positive, cohesive and welcoming environment. Galkowski was able to infuse a significant amount of interaction and discussed the current crisis
Initially intended for smaller audiences to focus on in-classroom practices, Galkowski revamped her presentation to include ways to connect virtually with students who are at home and isolated; along with content about self-care for practitioners.
“This pandemic is and will be a traumatic experience for most,” Galkowski said. The way we respond when we return to a new normal is a key factor in lessening the impact of this event. The things we do to maintain and enhance those connections during this time of isolation will go a long way in easing the transition back to school.”
“I was humbled by the response in number and geographic diversity of the participants, Galkowski said. This reinforces my belief that people are truly looking to stay connected and seeking ways to continue the support for each other and the children and families that we serve.”
About Center for Safe Schools
For more than two decades, Center for Safe Schools has been committed to providing training and consulting to help schools identify and implement effective programs and practices and maintain safe, productive learning environments. It serves as a statewide clearinghouse for educators, parents, law enforcement and others on school safety and youth violence prevention. Center for Safe Schools is an initiative of the Center for Schools and Communities.
Media Contact
Aylissa Kiely Tyndale
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