The Special Schools division is committed to professional growth and student success. Several team members recently attended two conferences focused on health, wellness and special education resources.
Shawniqua Matthews, Scharlde Franklin and Faith Adewale, nurses from Academic and Behavior Schools East and West, attended the Texas School Nurse Organization (TSNO) Conference on Nov. 1-2 at The Woodlands Resort. Sessions discussed how to enhance student wellness and strengthen the power of advocacy and available resources for nurses.
Keynote speaker Dr. Stephen Sroka reminded school nurses of the power of building relationships between nurses and students with a key message – “Work on replacing the ‘I’ in illness with ‘we’ to get to wellness.” Director of Curriculum and Special Services Dr. Margaret Patton and Compliance and Technical Support Officer Michelle Rayson also attended.
Assistant Superintendent for Academic Support Services Jonathan Parker and Highpoint Assistant Principal Lenora Lewis traveled to Oklahoma for the Council of Administrators of Special Education (CASE) Conference on Nov. 4-7. The pair attended small-group sessions that discussed how to advance equity for students with disabilities, promote conflict resolution among students, and build a strong school culture.
Together, these experiences reflect the division’s dedication to continuous learning and collaboration, ensuring that staff are equipped with the knowledge and tools to create a supportive, inclusive environment where every student can thrive.