Join us for part two of our conversation with experts from the Neurosequential Model in Education (NME) team. In this follow-up session, we’ll dig deeper into what it means to create classrooms and school systems that reflect how the brain learns, regulates, and connects. Whether you joined the first webinar or are just jumping in, this session will equip you with more tools and real-world strategies to support student behavior, build relationships, and stay regulated as an educator. We’ll explore how these principles apply across age groups, how to move from reactive to proactive practices, and how schools can begin to align systems with what the brain actually needs.
– Originally discussed live on June 12, 2025

As the 2024–25 school year winds down, this is the perfect time to reflect on the mental health lessons we’ve learned—and to prepare for a stronger, more connected school year ahead. This free national webinar brings together top voices in student services and educational leadership for a conversation focused on what truly drives student wellbeing: connection. Together, we’ll explore:
- Mental health trends and their real-world impact on students and staff
- The power of having a trusted adult—and how to build that into your systems
- School-community partnerships that improve student outcomes
- Real strategies you can apply this summer or fall to foster belonging and resilience
– Originally discussed live on May 22, 2025

Every educator has faced moments when a student’s behavior leaves them feeling confused, frustrated, or at a loss. Whether it’s a student shutting down, lashing out, or reacting in ways that don’t “fit” their age or environment, the question remains: What’s really going on—and how can I help? This webinar is designed to answer that question in a way that’s grounded in brain science and filled with practical, usable tools. You’ll be introduced to the Neurosequential Model in Education (NME)—a powerful framework developed by Dr. Bruce Perry that helps educators understand student behavior through the lens of brain development, stress response, and regulation. Rather than offering one-size-fits-all strategies, NME empowers educators to see behavior differently—as communication, as adaptation, and as an invitation to connect. You’ll discover how even the most challenging moments can become opportunities to build trust, support regulation, and foster resilience. Through stories, examples, and a lively panel conversation, we’ll explore how to support students whose emotional responses seem out of sync with expectations, how to help students regulate before we reason with them, and how understanding “state-dependent functioning” can completely change the way we approach learning and discipline. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, administrator, counselor, or support staff member, this conversation will meet you where you are. You’ll leave with a renewed sense of hope, practical strategies for your very next tough moment, and a deeper understanding of how to support both students and yourself in the process.

Presented by The WhyTry Organization and NAEA

Build on What Works—Take the Next Step Toward a Trauma-Responsive School Culture

Following the powerful discussion in our March webinar, we’re diving even deeper into the practical realities of trauma-responsive education—because understanding trauma is only the beginning. Now it’s time to move from awareness to action.

Join us for Part 2 of our special educator series featuring expert educator and speaker Joe Antonelli, in partnership with The WhyTry Organization and the National Alternative Education Association (NAEA). Whether you joined us last time or this is your first session, you’ll walk away with new insights, fresh strategies, and renewed energy for supporting your students and yourself.

This session goes beyond the classroom to explore how school-wide culture, staff well-being, and intentional daily interactions can foster real, lasting behavior change.

Discover a Better Way to Support Students—Starting with Resilience Student behavior is communication. When students act out, shut down, or seem disengaged, it's often rooted in trauma. But how can schools respond in ways that are supportive and effective—without burning out the educators doing the work? Join us for a powerful, free panel discussion that dives into what it really means to be trauma-informed—and how schools can build resilient environments where both students and educators thrive. You’ll hear from expert educator and speaker Joe Antonelli, along with leaders from The WhyTry Organization and the National Alternative Education Association (NAEA), as we explore practical, resilience-based strategies that help shift mindsets, reduce disruptive behavior, and build stronger relationships between students and staff. This session is perfect for: - Classroom teachers - Counselors and school psychologists - School and district administrators - Behavior interventionists and support staff What You’ll Learn: - The most common misconceptions about trauma and student behavior - How to begin shifting from traditional discipline to a trauma-responsive approach - Ways educators can build their own resilience while supporting students - The role of safe, stable, nurturing relationships in real behavior change - Simple, ready-to-use strategies you can apply in your school today

Join educational experts Gerald Robinson and Scott McMullen in this insightful WhyTry webinar, “Restorative Practices in Action: Strategies to Build Stronger Relationships and Resilient Classrooms.” Discover effective restorative techniques designed to enhance student relationships and foster resilient classroom environments. Gain practical strategies to implement restorative practices that promote empathy, accountability, and a positive school culture. Whether you’re an educator, administrator, or school counselor, this webinar offers valuable insights to transform your approach to student engagement and discipline.

Join us for an insightful discussion on building strong school-family partnerships with leading experts in education and resilience. This episode features strategies from the WhyTry Parent Guide to help educators, counselors, and administrators support student success. Our panelists—Robin Mackey, Dr. Tracye Strichik, and Jason Johnson—share actionable ideas on resilience-based programs, after-school initiatives, and overcoming obstacles in education. Tune in for practical takeaways and renewed inspiration to help every student thrive!

In this episode, we gain insights from Dr. Melissa Sadorf, Superintendent of Stanfield Elementary School District in Arizona, and Mike Hogg, Vice President of Partners for Rural Impact, as they share their experiences teaching in rural areas. They discuss the unique challenges and valuable lessons learned in these settings, offering practical advice that can be applied by educators everywhere. Tune in to explore strategies for building resilience and overcoming obstacles in diverse teaching environments. – Originally discussed live on Jun 7, 2024