IMPORTANT - PLEASE READ THIS MESSAGE BEFORE YOU BEGIN:
How to Use Sched: Conference sessions are first-come, first-served. The majority of our sessions will range from 30-80 people. This online schedule is to help you think in advance about which sessions you are most interested in.
You may have used Sched via a personal log-in for past Conferences. Since this is an in-person Conference and sessions are first-come, first-served, there is no log-in for attendees.
We will also offer a printed program for all attendees at the Conference, which will include session titles and locations. VENUE MAP
As shifts in global migration continue, schools and community organizations are welcoming a diverse range of newcomers coming to the U.S. through the resettlement program. This session will delve into the emerging groups arriving in Washington, helping participants build a stronger understanding of these newcomers and the unique factors that shape their resettlement experiences. Participants will explore essential approaches for addressing the backgrounds, strengths, and challenges these populations bring, while also learning how to navigate key resources and data to remain informed about demographic trends. The session aims to empower educators and administrators to tailor their strategies at all levels—from individual classrooms to district-wide planning.
Rob Callus is a Switchboard Training Officer with a focus on community integration. He is a lifelong educator with several years of experience working in instructional design, global health, and refugee resettlement. Prior to joining Switchboard, he was a program manager for World... Read More →
Many of us have confided in others during dark times, and vice versa. But it can feel awkward, if not downright frightening, not knowing what to do when a loved one, peer, or youth shows suicide warning signs. Developed by Forefront Suicide Prevention at the University of Washington, School of Social Work, the five simple and effective LEARN steps empower individuals to identify and support those who may be considering suicide.
This workshop will introduce the public health issue of suicide, including why youth may consider suicide by covering risk factors, a theory of why people consider suicide, and recent data. Using the LEARN model, the presenters will highlight how to identify, understand, and be ready to support someone who may be at risk for suicide. There will also be an opportunity to practice and apply the LEARN steps in a practice scenario. As part of this session, Forefront’s staff will also integrate conversations about mental health, the importance of prevention/intervention/response plans and procedures, and capacity building.
School Mental Health Specialist, Forefront Suicide Prevention
Michelle Flores joined Forefront Suicide Prevention as a School Mental Health Specialist in Spring 2023. She received her BA in Anthropology from California State University, Long Beach and MA in Marriage, Couple and Family Therapy from Lewis and Clark College. She has worked professionally... Read More →
School Mental Health Specialist, Forefront Suicide Prevention
Sam is a school counselor by training and experience. She earned her Bachelors degree from University of Washington in 2010 and her Masters in Counseling from Seattle University in 2017. She has led counseling teams in comprehensive public high schools in Oregon and Washington State... Read More →
Community Organizer, Alliance for Gun Responsibility
Alex is a community organizer that trains and supports youth (ages 16-22) around building skills to advocate for policy change in their communities. From supporting elections, to legislative agendas, to public education, Alex was an integral part of passing the Assault Weapons Ban... Read More →
