There is a lot of controversy surrounding social and emotional learning, which is often due to misunderstandings, assumptions, and fear. Dr. LaDonna Braswell, who is an exceptional principal at North Parkway Middle School in Jackson, TN, specializes in community building and social and emotional literacy. Could the implementation of social and emotional learning in schools can lead to a future with less violence? According to real-life experience AND research across social sciences, the answer is a resounding YES!

Meet Mia, a high school student who is transforming her school's leadership landscape. Discover her inspiring journey from joining the Latino Youth Leadership Group to becoming a vocal advocate for her community. Mia shares how she became the representation she never saw growing up, and why it's crucial for voices like hers to be heard in decision-making spaces. Her insight highlights the importance of involvement and representation in shaping not just school policies but also broader community and national discussions.

Andrew Walanski believes that choosing love over fear can change education and society beyond it. Inspired by Gregory Boyle's approach to humanizing gang members in their recovery, his message suggests a shift towards kindness and empathy in schools and discipline. It doesn't mean there aren't consequences, but the form they take must shift for the education system to make meaningful headway in addressing these issues. Here's a straightforward look at why love matters in learning.

Julienne Ho, parent, All It Takes board member, and general rockstar, discusses the landscape of observable differences along racial and socio-economic lines and the pressure parents go through in approaching these topics with their growing children. Jules encourages bold and brave honesty, so those who are focused on a better tomorrow will find and inspire each other. If we don't answer their questions truthfully, they'll seek answers elsewhere. As a parent or educator, what's your approach to discussing loaded differences with youth?

Compassion is empathy in action! All It Takes are simple acts of understanding and grace. Christina Fitzgerald is the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for a school district in California and an influential advocate for her teachers to embrace the human side of their jobs. Following up with students on their 'off' days is vital, because the behavior can never be truly addressed without addressing the root cause. Plus, by staying curious, you're modeling compassion and authenticity, which students are craving. A brilliant education is only possible through brilliant human connection!

Cathy Flores, Principal of an alternative high school in California and senior director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Belonging, talks about the complexities educators of color navigate on their campuses and throughout their careers. Shining a light on the added responsibilities these educators bear in educating their peers about cultural sensitivity and inclusivity, Cathy brings to light the silent, heavy, and unrecognized burdens they carry. A collective effort towards recognizing these challenges and actively working towards an educational environment that values and supports diversity at its core is necessary at this moment to meet the social crisis facing our society. What are you doing in your community to center those most marginalized? Let us know!

Meet Raghu Appasani, a renowned psychiatrist and stellar human who is changing the game in mental health treatment. Bid farewell to cold clinics and endless meds, this practice is about getting real with mental health, meeting people right where they're at, and using everything from deep chats to healthy fridge hauls to help change lives. We're talking about breaking down walls and showing how genuine human connection can go a long way. From villages in India to homes in the U.S., Raghu's exemplary approach shows us the power of real talk, real care, and real healing.

"There is no neutrality when the civil and human rights of our children are being violated." Meet Dr. Vincent Pompei, an education equity consultant for LGBTQ+ Inclusion. With eyes wide open, a soul stirred to action, and a heart committed to justice, he articulates the undeniable duty to intervene when witnessing wrongs. Vinny's powerful approach serves as a call to all of us: to recognize our role in fostering change, not from a place of courage- but from the undeniable obligation of our shared humanity.

Nicky Wilks, Educator, Consultant, and Co-Founder of Journeymen and One Village, has a message for youth on behalf of the older generations. He acknowledges the role youth play in our communities and encourages youth not to be discouraged by resistance. It's the youth's gift to the world to lead change culturally, and A Trusted Space is here to equip them with the tools they'll need to do so with power, passion, and compassion.

Andrew Walanski, a California middle school principal, uses universal principles of positive connection, influence, and trust to transform his school and community into a place where EVERYONE feels valued, safe, and understood. There is a measurable benefit to positive communities and learning environments, and his mission is to spread the opportunity for as many people as possible to experience it for themselves. What are you doing in your community to bring everyone together? We'd love to hear from you and highlight your best practices for others!

Justine Fischer of All It Takes and CalHOPE Schools shares her journey as a parent navigating the complexities of raising a neurodivergent child in the public school system. She speaks to the pain of unwarranted blame and misunderstanding from others, underscoring the importance of empathy, patience, and community support in creating successful outcomes for every learner. From her own experience, she knows support from those who recognized her son's needs gave her family the fuel they needed to advocate for their son, leading to tremendous outcomes that defied expectations.

All It Takes caught up with Professor Whoa AKA Cortney Linsey at the 2023 California Schools Summit to find out how he and his community of educators are able to build genuine connections and healthy classroom communities in a society that so often leans towards apathy. What does it really take for children to believe in themselves? As Cortney illustrates, the modeling of self-love by those who have the most influence on the younger generation is essential.

Brandi shares her model approach to supporting her children's education - supporting their teachers! Among the heated tensions between parents and the education ecosystem, Brandi shares a refreshing reminder of the village we all must create to provide trusted spaces for our children. Immediate, constructive communication around student behavior can unlock the power of parental support for educators. Through this real-life example, experience how proactive communication and mutual respect can build a stronger foundation for children's success.

Ashley Jaron, a high school history teacher, reflects on her journey from failing US history to teaching it with passion. Discussing her personal failures and recovery, she emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes and the role of educators in preparing students for future challenges. Ms. Jaron raises her concerns about current educational practices that may not fully equip students for college or careers, advocating for a balance between support and teaching valuable life lessons.

Andrew Walanski, a middle school principal in Southern California, shares an impactful moment in his job that represents a much larger issue in education. A growing divide in opinions on punitive measures has many teachers and staff standing apart from administrators. Andrew acknowledges the divide and stands firm in his belief that student behaviors must be treated as a statement of need and that schools need to be dedicated to students, even on their worst days.

Flex your SEL Muscles with Marcy Melvin as she explains the importance of not taking student behavior personally. She unpacks why it's crucial for teachers to see beyond surface-level disruptions, understanding that these moments aren't personal attacks but cries for help. This talk is a game-changer for educators looking to connect more deeply with their students and transform their approach to classroom challenges.

Ashley Jaron, a high school teacher, and Courtney Linsey, AKA Professor Whoa, an artist and educator, delve into the harsh realities students face today. They discuss the normalization of violence and how students use humor as a coping mechanism, highlighting the emotional toll these experiences take on young minds. This video offers a rare glimpse into the challenges teachers face in creating safe, nurturing environments amidst such realities and sheds light on the resilience and struggles of today's youth.

Think about behavior management in a new way with AIT Consultant Alex Craighead, M.A.T. This video offers strategies for educators to address challenging student behavior, fostering a productive learning environment. Gain insights into practical approaches for engaging students and maintaining classroom harmony.

Dr. Raghu Appasani, a leader in the field of modern psychiatry, dives deep into the question of what kids need. What kids want is flexible and changes with the ages, but what they need is a constant. Humans require connection with each other to survive, and Dr. Appasani explains in detail how we can prioritize secure attachment to help mitigate the current mental health crisis.

Hear from Tom Hixon, an esteemed teacher and band/performing arts director from California, as he discusses educators' pivotal role in addressing their students' emotional well-being. In this insightful talk, Hixon sheds light on the silent struggles many students face — emotional traumas that are less overt than physical injuries but can significantly impact learning and development. Drawing from his rich experience, Hixon articulates the need for a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to classroom management that goes beyond traditional teaching methods. As Hixon eloquently argues, social-emotional learning isn't just a wise choice; it's an essential, mandatory facet of modern education that enables students to heal, grow, and thrive in the real world.

Julienne Ho, a parent, opens up about the often unvoiced hardships that educators endure. With deep empathy, she reflects on the reality that teachers might not feel free to express their struggles and the importance of creating a space where they can share their true experiences without judgment. Julienne also touches upon the shift in parenting norms, recognizing the value in being transparent with children about life's challenges.

Alan Arkatov, Senior Advisor to ASU President Michael Crow, Executive Director of Learning Transformation Studios and Center EDGE, and Professor at the College of Global Futures and Mary Lou Fulton Teachers College, reflects on the impact of the pandemic on societal perspectives about life's meaning. The pandemic has urged people to contemplate their contributions to society, the value of their actions, and the profound nature of our existence. Alan highlights the importance of not shielding children from these existential questions, noting that they, like adults, must grapple with understanding their role in life, albeit through a different processing lens due to their age and experience.

Nicky Wilks, Educator and Co-Founder of Journeymen & One Village, shares his observations on the disconnect between the classroom and the real-world interests of today's students. Why aren't traditional teaching methods engaging students the same way social media and video games do? Join the discussion about how educators can adapt to better meet students where they are.

Join Alex Craighead, educational consultant and Co-Founder of Journeymen & One Village, as he discusses the emotional struggles and resilience of today's youth. Understand why so many young people are losing hope and how emotional defense mechanisms impact both students and educators. Tune into Meeting The Moment to learn how anyone working with youth can help them to find resilience.

Sometimes, educators inadvertently block students from what they need to feel comfortable and ready to learn. How can teachers open up meaningful dialogue with students to better understand the motivations for behaviors often considered disruptive?

Bullying has taken a dark turn, especially in middle schools. Kathryn Dusek, a middle school teacher in Southern California, talks about the role social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube play in shaping the behaviors and attitudes of young students. It's time to address the issue and find solutions for a safer, more trusted learning environment for our students.

Join as Gigi Crowder, Executive Director of NAMI Contra Costa, discusses the importance of individualized education for all students, and it doesn't have to be a hard thing to implement! Gigi highlights the potential for positive change when students with different strengths are paired together in the classroom. Let's challenge the usual way of doing things and explore how a more holistic approach to education can make a real difference.

Meet Maria Sandoval, a dedicated middle school math teacher whose resilience in the face of life's challenges inspires her students every day. Discover how Maria's personal journey as a DACA recipient has equipped her with unique insights and a special ability to motivate her students to see limitless possibilities for their own futures. Explore the emotional and practical hurdles Maria overcame, and learn why she believes that one step at a time can make the impossible, possible.