KEYNOTE:
Raising Our Village: Creating a Culture of Dignity for and with Young People

As young people navigate a constantly changing educational environment and integrate their experiences of COVID, we know one thing is certain – supportive relationships and social skills are critical to their emotional well-being. But these skills are not “soft skills;” they are essential for young people to engage in their education and support their emotional and mental health. From young people’s friendships, anxiety, social media, conflicts with friends and family, and the constant pressure to “keep up,” this presentation will share insights and strategies to best connect with young people – especially when they need us most.

BREAKOUT SESSION:
Queen Bees and Masterminds: Helping Young People Navigate Friendships, Social Conflicts, and Bullying
Over 20 years ago, the book Queen Bees & Wannabes profoundly changed the way we see girls' friendships. Three editions later, along with the publication of Masterminds & Wingmen, Rosalind Wiseman has continued to pull back the curtain on what’s going on in young people’s culture—from gender to canceling, their friendships, and social hierarchies. In this presentation, she will share how young people's social group dynamics influence their interactions and offer step-by-step advice on how to teach them how to navigate these common yet complex situations, such as why young people can be reluctant to ask for help. She’ll also give common-sense suggestions that adults can use to break through the communication barriers.