Diversity & Equity

Jillayne Flanders the executive director of the Center for Educational Improvement, a nonprofit organization focused on supporting mindful and compassionate schools with heart-centered, trauma-informed practices. She has taught graduate classes at Westfield State University, supervised student teachers at Mount Holyoke College, and lectured at Boston University, Springfield College, Boston College, and Harvard Graduate School of Education.

Jason D. Cummins (Awachíikaate) is an Indigenous scholar with over 20 years of experience in education, having served in various roles including teacher, instructional coach, and administrator. He is a contributing author of The School Wellness Wheel, coauthor of Humanized Education, and a professor of educational leadership at Montana State University. Jason has worked with schools on a range of initiatives, from implementing traditional school improvement efforts to culturally sustaining, trauma-informed, and restorative approaches.

Inspired by the book A Blueprint for Belonging, this session offers a transformative approach to leadership and team building for educators, leaders, and paraprofessionals. Explore strategies to prevent burnout, build resilience, and foster cultures of belonging using the BUILD framework (Boundaries, Understanding, Integrity, Listening, Dependability), while tackling leadership challenges in high-impact roles.

JoEllen McCarthy is a literacy expert, speaker, and author dedicated to integrating academic and affective learning through inclusive mentor texts. She supports educators and students by promoting joyful, student-centered literacy practices that connect reading, writing, and life skills.

Barbara K. Watterston, EdD, has held a number of school and executive leadership positions across Australia. Her national and international research, design of school and system leadership programs, coaching and speaking engagements emphasize the impact of high-quality leadership on student learning.

Daniel Russell Jr., EdD, is the coordinator of research and development and lead cultural and linguistic responsiveness (CLR) coach for the Center for Culturally Responsive Teaching and Learning. There, he leads training and professional development and provides one-on-one coaching.

Barbara Boroson, LMSW, has been an autism educator for more than 25 years. As a clinical social worker, she specialized in working with students on the autism spectrum and went on to become a school administrator.

Amanda L. Yurick, PhD, is an associate professor in special education at Cleveland State University. She currently teaches graduate and undergraduate students pursuing licensure in special education and/or applied behavior analysis.

Michael Meechin is an award-winning educational leader, strategist, and thought partner. Currently, Michael supports schools and districts nationwide to move their work forward by breaking down systemic barriers to improvement.

Deborah Ricker is principal at Cedar Trails Exploration Center: Early Childhood in Kansas. She previously led Glenwood Ridge Elementary and has 19 years of experience as a school psychologist, serving early childhood through high school in both public and private school settings.