7th Annual Anti-Violence Symposium

Registration starts bright and early at 8am! Be sure to check in with Mark Turnage at the registration table to collect your conference materials before helping yourself to breakfast and chatting with our exhibitors! 

In Ferial Pearson's keynote address on "The Secret Kindness Agents," she takes audiences on a compelling journey into the transformative power of kindness. Leveraging her experiences as both an educator and author, Pearson recounts captivating tales of students who undertook a mission to spread kindness throughout their community. Through heartfelt anecdotes and insightful reflections, she sheds light on the profound impact of seemingly small acts of compassion and generosity. Pearson's keynote serves as a poignant reminder for listeners to embrace kindness as a guiding principle in their lives, nurturing empathy, fostering connections, and catalyzing positive change. With a demeanor characterized by warmth and authenticity, Pearson emphasizes that kindness transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, serving as a universal language capable of uniting and uplifting humanity, one thoughtful gesture at a time.

Be sure to visit our exhibitor booths in the atrium!

During this session, participants will delve into the multifaceted concept of trauma, exploring its manifestations both within and outside of the school environment. They will gain insights into the profound impact trauma can have on individuals and communities, as well as strategies for effectively mitigating its effects through trauma-informed approaches within school settings. Additionally, participants will develop an understanding of how school systems may inadvertently perpetuate or exacerbate trauma and harm, and they will be equipped with tools to identify such practices. By the session's end, attendees will be empowered to advocate for and implement alternative practices aimed at fostering healing, resilience, and positive outcomes for all students. Through this comprehensive exploration, participants will emerge better equipped to create safe, nurturing environments conducive to academic success and holistic well-being.

Be sure to visit our exhibitor booths in the atrium!

Community violence, discrimination, interpersonal violence, and adversity within the home are just a few types of trauma that impact the health, wellbeing, and ability to learn for Iowa's youth.
This session will focus on identifying potential trauma reactions in the educational environment and discuss trauma-informed practice and policy responses that schools can take.

Lunch will be available in the atrium beginning at 12:20! If you have any dietary restrictions, please don't forget to email jordan@iowasafeschools.org by noon on May 15 to make sure we accommodate your dietary needs. 

Be sure to visit our exhibitor booths in the atrium!

How do we create a culture that prevents sexual harm from occurring? Do you know how to create a consent culture in your classroom, or to recognize different kinds of harm and intervene before it escalates? In this workshop, we’ll discuss research and best practices around sexual violence prevention for schools, analyze some scenarios to practice our intervention skills, and brainstorm opportunities to create safer environments for the young people in your care.

This session invites educators to explore the transformative potential of restorative practices in fostering student empowerment and building positive school communities. This session delves into the principles and methodologies of restorative justice, emphasizing dialogue, empathy, and accountability. Participants will discover practical strategies for implementing restorative approaches in classroom management, conflict resolution, and disciplinary procedures. Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, attendees will learn how to create inclusive and supportive learning environments where students feel heard, respected, and empowered to take ownership of their actions and relationships. By the end of the session, educators will be equipped with the tools and insights needed to cultivate restorative cultures that prioritize healing, reconciliation, and meaningful connections among students and staff.

Be sure to visit our exhibitor booths in the atrium!

In this interactive workshop, participants will explore effective strategies for creating inclusive environments that support students with disabilities in schools. Led by an experienced specialist in disability support, this session will delve into practical approaches for addressing the unique needs of students with diverse abilities.

Attendees will gain insights into understanding the challenges faced by students with disabilities and learn how to implement accommodations and modifications to foster their academic and social success. Through case studies, discussions, and hands-on activities, participants will develop a deeper understanding of inclusive practices and learn how to advocate for the needs of students with disabilities within their school communities.

Key objectives include:

• Understanding the spectrum of disabilities and their impact on learning
• Developing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 plans that meet the needs of students with disabilities
• Building positive relationships and promoting social inclusion among students with and without disabilities
• Providing appropriate support and resources for students with disabilities to thrive academically and emotionally

By the end of the workshop, participants will leave with practical strategies and resources to effectively support students with disabilities, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential in a safe and inclusive school environment.