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School Support Network and Coffee Chats
Join us and connect with others!
The School Culture and Climate Initiative has always been grounded in the belief that when communities come together and people work collaboratively, great things can be achieved; what may have seemed impossible, becomes possible. Changing school climate is no easy task but it can be done with the right resources and when we surround ourselves with other professionals who are committed to achieving the same vision and goals. The School Support Network (SSN) and Coffee Chats were created for this very reason – to bring changemakers together to learn and grow and become champions for change in their school communities.
SSN meetings and Coffee Chats are open to everyone who work with or on behalf of children and families. For meeting format (live or via Zoom) and other registration details, check the listing of upcoming meetings.
What are Coffee Chats?
Coffee chats are informal virtual gatherings that allow schools to connect with one another. Participants have shared successes, challenges, and ideas with their colleagues during our past coffee chats.
What are Job-Alike Coffee Chats?
These coffee chats bring together educators in similar roles. While collaborating with colleagues in diverse roles has its advantages, gathering with those in the same professional role allows you to explore more in-depth job-specific concerns, issues and potential strategies.
What are SSNs?
SSNs also bring educators together virtually but in addition to informal networking, SSNs also offer one hour of professional development on relevant topics selected based on participant feedback.
Named a “Promising Practice” by character.org, the SSN provides:
- An opportunity for schools to learn from each other and build relationships with other schools
- The chance to participate in professional development workshops and symposiums on school climate and social-emotional learning (SEL)
- Spotlight schools that feature best practices and innovative ideas
- A way to keep abreast of developments and resources that support SEL and culture and climate work
Who Should Attend
- Educators
- Administrators
- Community partners working on behalf of schools and children in grades K-12
- Board of Education members
- PTO/PTA members
Participants will receive a certificate of attendance indicating the number of continuing education contact hours.
PD Topics Previously Explored at SSN Meetings
- Student Anxiety and Stress
- Creating Safe and Affirming Schools for LGBTQ Youth
- Data-Driven Decision Making and Planning for School Climate Improvement
- Fostering Family Engagement and Support
- Handling Difficult Conversations: Strategies to Build a Community of Respect
- Integrating Social Emotional Learning into the Classroom
- Diversity and Inclusion
- Mindfulness Practices
- Service Learning
- The Impact of Trauma in Schools
- Promoting Positive Behavior in the Classroom
- Exploring Roles and Styles of Leadership
- Practical Upstander Skills for Skills for Students and Staff Who Witness Bullying Behavior