Chat will be typical Q1, A1 format [with some (a), (b), (c) extensions, IE: Q1a: Include #MTedchat on every post. You might find it handy to use Tweetchat https://t.co/ES5EublVE1
“Your students’ life experiences are a rich source of background knowledge and potential narrative strategy for you to tap in your classroom.” ~ Eric Jensen #MTedchat
A1 stressors- the holidays! Not so merry for many families. It’s difficult to look forward to a winter break when you’re worried about food, childcare, or safety. #mtedchat@cristama
A3a: I'll do my best to sweet talk a troubled S, but when I have done it 5 times by noon, I call in reinforcements. This is a daily thing in my room. #MTedchat
It's strange what triggers the sadness. It can be the most minuscule things. I empathize with students and school faculty who have lost loved ones and are having a hard time along with all of the other stressors of this time of year. #MTedchat
Yes... and then there is a domino affect. When negative behaviors increase, draws instructional time and teacher energy. Need to shift how we teach #mtedchat
Ahhhh... reinforcements... Critical. We use a team teacher strategy. If a student needs change of environment, they can work at back of partners Ts room, independently, until ready to re-join. Use enough, with all...there is no stigma. #mtedchat
A3: Empathy and care. When thinking about behavior management, it's important to be extra compassionate and to get to the root of the behavior. It's hard to know what might be triggering the behavior. #MTedchat
Exactly... and shows all the adults will work together to provide the best environment possible for all students. More effective than office referrals. #mtedchat
A4 One elem school in Billings has adopted a trauma-based model; no judgement when a student has a need... they just get care (for staff, too). #mtedchat
A4: Our MBI (PBIS) program is definitely getting legs. We established a Student Council this year and they take lead on identifying school goals and refining behavioral expectations. Shift as we go. So much is situational. #mtedchat
A4: In virtual coaching, I'm cognizant of teachers body language, words they use, and how they enter a call. I do a lot of listening and get them to reflect on how much they've grown---instead of trying new strategies. #mtedchat
A4: We have Intermountain Mental Health employees in our building now, and our MBI Team is really strong and supportive of S needs and finding ways to support them. #MTedchat
Yep. We only do office referrals if the minor behavior is so repetitive that can't be classroom addressed or if action is violent or belligerent. Those events have become rare. Was shift in thinking and a process #mtedchat
@TraciPiltz and I were talking about this just today. Sometimes we have to put aside our “jobs” and just help meet the needs of our teachers. #mtedchat
We have to do all we can in partnering with local agencies and bringing services to our schools. Teachers and admins also need to understand ACEs- Adverse Childhood Experiences - as behaviors may be interpreted as illness or mental health issues. #MTedchat
Glad to hear you are teaming with them. We team really well with our Altacare specialists. We are transitioning to full time counselor next year though. More time for services, less paperwork. #mtedchat
YES. All humans in the system need support. Students, families, Ts, coaches, admin, school board... We have a huge responsibility, and need the network. #mtedchat
In reply to
@AnnBruckerTIS, @TriSciCurious, @TraciPiltz
This time can be really diff for T's that are torn between doing the "right thing" vs what we want, which is to wrap some S's up in a bear hug and take them home. #MTedchat
Agreed. Many of us get together in a classroom after school to do yoga. Also walk the 'bench' road behind school. Can't always make time...but try. #mtedchat
A5: On Fridays we do "Visions". Ts partner together to work with a PK-8 cross-section of students on theme-based activity. All Ts meet all Ss, All Ss know each other. Huge process to support community. #mtedchat
YES. All humans in the system need support. Students, families, Ts, coaches, admin, school board... We have a huge responsibility, and need the network. #mtedchat
In reply to
@AnnBruckerTIS, @TriSciCurious, @TraciPiltz
Q5: What are some strategies/tools you use to support positive mental health with (a) students? (b) families? (c) staff members? #MTedchat (@AnnBruckerTIS )
A5 Our district has invested in full time social workers at every site. We’ve also partnered with @USC School of Social work. Counseling interns + Soc worker support all stakeholders. Game changer! (Parent workshops, mindfulness, health& wellness, empowerment groups). #MTedchat
YES. All humans in the system need support. Students, families, Ts, coaches, admin, school board... We have a huge responsibility, and need the network. #mtedchat
In reply to
@AnnBruckerTIS, @TriSciCurious, @TraciPiltz
Q6: What can a system offer to help you feel better prepared to meet the mental health needs of members of your school community? #MTedchat (Final question ;)
A6 It’s hard to think of putting ourselves first, but like with the oxygen mask on an airplane, the caregivers (WE) need to take steps to be mentally healthy ourselves. #MTedchat
A6: I find that the more quality training I participate in and can offer staff the better we are in meeting student needs. Trauma training isn't just for mental health professionals. Suicide prevention, family involvement, etc. Plan meaningful PD #mtedchat
