From left to right: Carrie Du Bois, Dr. Ryan Matlow, Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison, Sarah Kremer, Jeneé Littrell
On May 20, Acknowledge Alliance co-hosted the Sixth Annual Education Conference: Connections Between Achievement, Neuroscience, and Stress.
Stress and trauma levels are rising in schools for students, families, and staff due to a changing society, increased academic expectations, family/friend issues, and normal child development. Schools are seeing an increased need for a variety of services for everyone to support learning in existing environments.
Keynote speakers, Dr. Ryan Matlow and Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison, discussed the impact trauma and stress have on students and educators alike. Dr. Ryan Matlow addressed the neurobiological and developmental impact that stress and trauma have, and how to foster resilience and growth for individuals and systems. Dr. Jacquelyn Ollison explored ways in which we can support educators, and improve teacher retention by addressing teachers' compassion fatigue.
The conference received positive feedback from our attendees:
“Thank you for sharing such valuable information, validation, and inspiration!”
–Educator
“Thank you for explaining the concept and offering suggestions for our area.”
–District Staff
“All information was very relevant and helpful for figuring out next steps in our Redwood City School District.”
–Educator, Curriculum Coach
“Enjoyed hearing all the pieces from neuroscience and stressors then bringing it together in actual on-the-ground programs.”
–School Board Member
“Great information presented throughout the event. Totally worth the time and worth of further reflection and implementation.”
–County Staff
Thank you to our partners and event sponsors — San Mateo County School Boards Association, San Mateo County Office of Education, Sequoia Healthcare District — for organizing a powerful day of learning.