SJASD's Educational Support Services (ESS) team periodically develops and hosts Staying Well Workshops to support families in the Division. These virtual and free workshops support the mental health and wellbeing of students and their families. Topics include, but are not limited to dyslexia, addiction, ADHD, anxiety, academic success, and resilience. All SJASD caregivers with concerns in this area are encouraged to sign up. Browse the upcoming workshops below or review past recorded videos.
2025—2026 Workshop Series
The following workshops have been planned for the 2025—2026 school year.
Flourishing for Families 2.0
Wednesday, October 15, 2025, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Presenter: Dr. Elaine Cook, Behavioural Psycholgist
In today’s complex world, simplicity feels rare. But what if simple skills could transform your parenting and help your family thrive? Join this practical workshop to learn how to nurture your child’s resilience, autonomy, and self-regulation—the very strengths essential for lifelong well-being. In this workshop, participants will develop a basic understanding of emotions and behaviour, and learn how to positively influence emotions, and, in turn, behaviour.
To attend this workshop, simply join the Zoom meeting with the login credentials below No registration required. Please note: No recording will be available following this presentation:
Zoom Link:
https://hollandbloorview.zoom.us/j/62274604621?pwd=rx5fYmbxWHoluVGUgh38mWOlGW6HBK.1Meeting ID: 622 7460 4621
Passcode: 9744378
Join instructions
Understanding ADHD & Dyslexia in Girls & WomenDate: October 28, 2025, beginning at 6:15 p.m.
Presenters: School Psychologist Dr. Maria Phelps & Coordinator of Student Services Kristy Wake
ADHD and dyslexia often go unrecognized in girls and women due to subtler symptoms like inattention, emotional sensitivity, or quiet coping strategies. While males are more likely to be diagnosed early due to visible behaviours, females may be mislabeled as shy or anxious, delaying support. This underdiagnosis can lead to emotional distress, shame, and academic struggles. New research reveals brain and behavioural differences that explain these gender gaps. In this free, virtual workshop join us to learn how to recognize the signs, understand the emotional impact, and support girls and women navigating these often-hidden challenges.
Partnering, Advocating, and Supporting Autistic ChildrenDate: Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Presenter: Coordinator of Student Services Rute Mendes
This online workshop will be a conversation between
Lois Brothers, Family Advocacy and Engagement Facilitator with Inclusion Winnipeg, and
Rute Mendes, Coordinator of Student Services with St. James–Assiniboia School Division. Together, they will explore how parents of autistic students can navigate the education system with confidence, balancing advocacy with collaboration. Through discussion and shared examples, the session will highlight practical strategies for communicating with schools, understanding roles and responsibilities, and advocating for supports and services while maintaining positive, respectful relationships with school teams. The presenters will also reflect on the emotional side of parenting and advocacy, acknowledging the pressures families face and the importance of staying well while supporting their children.
Registration Now Open
Parenting Triggers: Understanding What Drives Our Reactions
Date: Tuesday, April 21, 2026, time TBD
Presenter: School Psychologists Sarah Juchnowski
Details pending.
Browse Past Staying Well Workshops
Over the last few years, SJASD has been developing and hosting Staying Well Workshops to support the wellbeing and mental health of SJASD students and their families. Check out the past workshops below or browse through our Staying Well Playlist on SJASD's YouTube Channel.
