Diversity Awareness Workshop for Educators

 

SPEAKERS :

9:15-10:45  - Meredith Guest and Janet Johnson

“Handling Diversity’s Hot Topics in the Elementary Schools”

Janet Johnson and Meredith Guest have taught elementary for over 15 years.  Meredith left the field when she came out as transsexual and pursued writing.  They both have worked diligently to address diversity topics and educate children on the differences in human culture.  Their workshop will teach prospective teachers how to incorporate diversity awareness into the curriculum as well as present materials which help open diversity topics up to classroom conversation.

11:00—11:45 - California Youth Connection, Speakers Bureau

“Compassion in the classroom:  Teaching the teachers.”

Many children slip between the cracks in today’s educational world.  These children have come to educate the teachers on how to reach children who don’t have the support of a functioning family.  They are youth with out of home placement who have often experienced neglect from teachers and the education system.  This workshop will offer you the understanding of a different lifestyle with different consequences that create learning barriers.

12:45-2:15 - Frank Warren

 “Risk and Resiliency:  Steps Toward A Healthy School Community”

Schools are the front line in the prevention of substance use amongst youth. Teachers and administrators seeking improved test scores, safer campuses, and positive youth development are recognizing the critical need for science-based alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention strategies delivered in a school setting. Frank Warren is a Program Supervisor from the County of San Luis Obispo Drug and Alcohol Services who is trying to prevent youth drug abuse and promote healthy schools. This workshop will use local and California student data to help educators make the connection between youth substance use risks and the protective factors which can be built on campus.

2:15-4:15 - Gabe Escalera

“Treating Each Student Like an Individual: How to Reach the Tough Kid”

Gabe Escalera is a retired high school principle who spent many years working in the public school sector.  When asked to take a position at his local continuation school he jumped at the opportunity.  He has worked with many children from numerous backgrounds and has learned strategies for ensuring all students feel safe and at home in their school.  He has spoken for Juvenile Delinquency classes here at Cal Poly and his stories remind us of why education is so important and the ways in which it can reach the children who need help the most.  His workshop will give tools for having effective problem solving abilities within the classroom as well as address  topics such as emersion of minority groups and how provide equal opportunity for all students.

 

 

· Morning coffee & lunch provided

· Free with Cal Poly ID card, $10 for community members

· Full attendance is not required but highly recommended