Identifying Blindspots: Addressing Factors That Schools Overlook in Mitigating Student Anxiety and Enhancing Engagement

Among the many factors contributing to teacher attrition within the first five years, student behavioral challenges consistently rank among the most significant. Without effective intervention, these students are at risk for academic underperformance, limited engagement, and ongoing social and behavioral difficulties. When students experience overwhelming or negative thinking patterns, common team strategies, such as incentives, breaks, graphic organizers, or checklists, are often ineffective in promoting task initiation or engagement. This workshop will equip administrators with the knowledge and tools to guide school teams toward more effective, preventive approaches. Participants will learn how to move staff beyond traditional, reactive strategies and instead implement practical, evidence-based interventions that reduce oppositional behavior while increasing student engagement, task initiation, persistence, and self-monitoring.

Facilitator: Jessica Minahan, PhD, BCBA

Registration fee: $45 for SAI members, $90 for non-members. All participants are required to register.

Cancellation/refund policy: Registrants are responsible for full payment unless cancellation is received at least three business days in advance of the event. Email SAI or call 515-267-1115 to let us know if you're unable to attend.

Register for another virtual professional learning opportunity with Dr. Jessica Minahan on Jan. 29: Practical Strategies for Reducing Anxiety and Challenging Behavior in the Classroom.