This dynamic session bridges the JAG Advantage with trauma-informed care to empower educators supporting students impacted by adversity. Presenter LaTonya Jackson—a Licensed Addictions Counselor, Career Advisor, and Youth Mental Health First Aid Facilitator—draws from both clinical knowledge and her lived experience of loss and healing. With a focus on student connection, emotional regulation, and resilience-building, LaTonya equips participants with trauma-informed language, motivational interviewing techniques, and practical strategies to foster safe and empowering classroom environments. Grounded in compassion, this workshop challenges educators to show up fully—for students and themselves—using trauma-responsive tools that align with the heart of the JAG mission.
In this interactive session, experienced Specialists and Managers will dive into a curated selection of new Project-Based Learning (PBL) units from the growing PBL Library. Participants will explore, evaluate, and discuss these units collaboratively identifying strengths, surfacing gaps, and recommending improvements. With a focus on shaping the future of PBL at JAG, attendees will leave equipped to influence content development and ensure the PBL Library reflects classroom realities. Come ready to contribute your insights and help steer the evolution of high-impact PBL experiences for learners across the network.
Join us for a fast-paced, hands-on simulation that brings market concepts and Empowered Principles to life! In this session, you won’t just talk about trade—you’ll experience the real emotional and economic forces that drive it.
Through a series of engaging trading rounds, you’ll explore what happens when people are free to exchange, how value is created through cooperation, and why choice matters. By the end of the session, you’ll walk away with fresh ideas, deep insights, and a classroom-ready tool that gets students talking, thinking, and owning their learning.
In this workshop we'll reflect on our work as JAG Program Managers and Specialists: the little things that make our programs special, and the big ways we are doing the work of restoration and transformation for the youth we serve. Join Cynthia from Minnesota JAG for a conversation about JAG spaces as spaces of reflection, hope, healing, and community.
Talking about mental health with middle school and high school students isn’t easy—but it’s essential. In this session, you’ll gain tools and confidence to lead meaningful conversations using Restorative Practices, especially the Community Circle model. Learn how to create safe, student-centered spaces where teens can talk openly, support peers, and build a culture of care. You’ll also receive access to a resource—Let’s Talk About Mental Health, a graphic novel designed to spark powerful dialogue around emotions, identity, and connection. Experience the process firsthand and leave with practical strategies to help students feel seen, heard, and supported.
Who says mock interviews have to be all business and no fun? Dive into a session full of creativity, laughter, and props as you learn how to engage students' personalities while teaching them unforgettable interview skills through unconventional mock interviews!
Brandi, based in Wichita, KS, leads our training and events team. With 15 years of experience as a School Psychologist, she describes her role as bridging the gap between the classroom and the real world. As part of Empowered, she provides teachers with the tools and resources to... Read More →
Thursday July 17, 2025 3:15pm - 4:15pm EDT Segrell
