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.
2024—2025 Workshop Series
The following workshops have been planned for the 2024—2025 school year.
Technology and the Developing Brain: Strategies to Enhance Digital Wellness
Tuesday, November 26, 2024 from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Presenters: School Psychologist Dr. Maria Phelps and IT Coach Andy McKiel
Provides caregivers with practical strategies to enhance digital wellness for children, teens, and adults. Presenters explore the significant impact that digital technology—such as smartphones, social media, and other devices—has on school performance, emotional development, and overall mental health. The session delves into research that has influenced schools to reconsider and limit digital technology usage in educational settings. Importantly, this free, virtual workshop provides caregivers with practical strategies to enhance digital wellness for not only their children but also teens and adults, creating a more balanced relationship with technology in everyday life.
Understanding Power Struggles and Meltdowns
Tuesday, February 11, 2025 from 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Presenters: School Psychologists Sarah Juchnowski and Caitlyn Semenek
This workshop provides useful tips to help caregivers keep the peace and the rules. It also helps both parties self-regulate, even under pressure. Specifically, this workshop focuses on the complex and often challenging issue of power struggles and meltdowns across various age groups. Participants gain a deeper understanding of the triggers and dynamics behind these emotional conflicts, as well as learn practical strategies for keeping the peace while enforcing important household or classroom rules. This session is designed to help families and educators manage emotional regulation in a constructive and compassionate manner.
Supporting Children with Autism in School: Resources for Parents
Wednesday, April 16, 2025, 6:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m.
Presenters: Coordinator of Student Services Rute Mendes
Registration open now.
Join us for a virtual presentation designed to empower parents in supporting their autistic children at school. We’ll share practical strategies for building strong, collaborative relationships with school teams, improving communication, and enhancing co-regulation skills. Learn how to foster mutual trust and work effectively with educators to create a positive and supportive learning environment. Whether you're just beginning this journey or seeking new insights, this session will provide valuable resources to help you confidently support your child and strengthen school partnerships.
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.
