ICEARY 2025

Words have impact! Harness the power of affirmations to enhance student relationships and classroom morale. In this workshop, learn how intentional affirming interactions can cultivate empathy, build trust, nurture students' strengths, and deepen connections, fostering inclusion and a sense of belonging. Using a healing-centered, strengths-based approach, you’ll master the art of delivering affirmations effectively and guiding students to support one another. Create a more affirming, inclusive, and positive classroom and school culture.

Team building activities designed for both staff and students. These activities will be quick, cost-effective, and focused on fostering a positive and collaborative group culture. By participating, you'll gain practical insights into fun, engaging exercises that promote teamwork and strengthen relationships, helping to create a more connected and supportive community.

This panel presentation will discuss the journey of forming a DREAM SEL Culture. The panel will consist of students, teachers and administrators from the Dream Academy, the alternative high school in the Elgin U-46 School District. Attendees will learn about how student voice and a sense of belonging were made to be a priority by the staff.  Panorama data, graduation rates and a decrease in suspensions in the 23-24 school year proved that the school culture has been one that is growing and thriving.