The Next Step

A Resiliency and Protective Factor Approach to Student Well-being and Academic Achievement

Research in the behavioral sciences and neuroscience in recent years has significantly altered our perception of students who come to us from environments of risk and susceptibility to harm. Originally preoccupied with risk factors, pathologies, and deficits in young people, these fields have shifted the paradigm by “flipping the coin from risk to resiliency,” in the words of one of the pioneering researchers, Norman Garmezy. These studies clearly support the view that when educational leaders move from a perception of “at-risk students” to one of “students at-promise,” the academic, social and emotional well-being of all students is enhanced. How is this accomplished and what is the single most important protective factor ensuring positive outcomes for students? This engaging presentation provides the what and the why of that question.

The presentation is humorous, informative, interactive, and above all practical. You will leave feeling validated for your efforts to make the world a better place for others.

“The workshop was excellent. It renewed my energy and gave me extra confidence to pursue my work.”

M. Bakker, Curriculum Framework Director

“Excellent workshop. It gives me hope.”

C. North, School Principal

“The workshop demonstrated how one person can really make a difference in the life of another — especially important in my line of work with ‘high-risk’ children.”

D. Bruce, Court Appointed Special Advocate for Children

“The two days provided us not only with useful information, but the skills to begin the process of effective planning.”

A. Spence, Classroom Teacher and Care-Team member.

“Real tools that can be applied anywhere. A validating and useful workshop.”

M. Burrowes, School Administrator.

“The workshop was great! It left me feeling that I wanted more. But this is always how I feel after a great and stimulating workshop.”

B. Henderson, Manager, Secondary Indigenous Programs

“This was informative and fun! It gave me practical strategies that I can use in my work, my life, and my community.”

M. Smith, Teacher

“A very helpful and positive learning experience in understanding how to increase program effectiveness in community intervention.”

S. Thomas, Clinical Coordinator, Family Center.

“A very practical way to approach the focusing and resolution of problems.”

S. Benjamin, Parent Aide Program Director