KSDE Safe and Supportive Schools Conference

Objectives:
1. Equip educators and school leaders with strategies to create inclusive environments that foster belonging.
2. Analyze the relationship between inclusive school climates and overall student safety, mental health, and well-being.
3. Provide practical tools for embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into school policies, practices, and daily interactions.
4. Highlight actionable steps to address barriers to inclusivity while maintaining a trauma-informed and data-sensitive approach.

Short Description:
This interactive session explores the foundational principles of building inclusive school climates as outlined in the book Cracking the Code: Building Inclusive Culture & Climate by Dr. Ralita Cheeks. Participants will learn how fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging contributes to safe and supportive learning environments. The session emphasizes the connection between inclusivity, student mental health, belonging and school safety, providing attendees with practical strategies and tools to implement in their schools. By addressing challenges and sharing success stories, this presentation will inspire attendees to take actionable steps toward creating schools where all students and staff feel valued, respected, and secure.