CSEE Member Schools

• Registration before May 1, 2026: $2200 per person (includes lodging and meals*)
  Registration after May 1st: $2500 (includes lodging and meals*)
• Day-only registration** before May 1, 2026: $1980 per person (includes meals)
  Day-only registration** after May 1st: $2280 per person (includes meals)

Non-Members

• Registration before May 1, 2026: $2600 per person (includes lodging and meals*)
  Registration after May 1st: $2900 (includes lodging and meals*)
• Day-only registration** before May 1, 2026: $2380 per person (includes meals)
  Day-only registration** after May 1st: $2680 per person (includes meals) 

Additional nights
Sunday or Friday accommodations are available for $125

*Regular registration includes single dorm room accommodations, meals, and programming. Guests are welcome to arrive on campus Sunday, July 26th (the evening before the institute starts) between 4:00-9:30pm, or on the morning of Monday, July 27th. The institute starts at 10am on Monday. Please note that participants arriving on Sunday need to register for Sunday night accommodations. 

**IMPORTANT NOTE TO THOSE CONSIDERING THE DAY OPTION: The day option is intended for those who live close to the campus. The option is limited to 7 participants and is available on a first-come/first-served basis. Please keep in mind that the Institute is highly experiential and relational in nature, and the absence of anyone affects the group dynamics and the experience of others. All participants, including those who commute, are expected to be present for the entirety of the program and all scheduled events.

About

For more than 60 years, teachers from independent schools across the United States and beyond have gathered for intensive, week-long residential workshops led by experienced mental health and counseling professionals familiar with the independent school world to learn how to listen in a new way.

Navigating one’s way through adolescence has never been easy, and never harder than it is today. As concerns grow about the emotional and physical well-being of adolescents, study after study shows the central importance of a relationship with a caring adult to a young person's development. Parents and students seek out independent schools, with their small classes and involved faculty, to offer these relationships.

The Stanley King Institute offers training in deep listening skills for teachers, advisors, administrators, and other non-clinical, student-facing school personnel. Our goal is not to train professional counselors, but to help teachers strengthen and deepen their relationships with students. Participants learn to help students with the range of developmental issues, as well as to recognize serious psychological difficulty and seek appropriate help.

Learning How to Listen

Whether we are aware of it or not in any given moment, we are guiding students by our responses, our actions, and our inactions. Students’ needs are both evident and hidden, and they seek adults who can handle feelings and experiences they sometimes can’t. The Institute teaches participants how to listen deeply and to respond in ways that promote learning, meaningful relationships, and responsible behavior.

Reinvigorating Your Self

The power of the Institute is not only in its formal curriculum, but also in the shared experience of the participants. Whether we are gathered in the large group, looking more closely at issues in a small group, or listening to each other in pairs, our work is about learning to connect in ways that help students. Along the way, we, too, feel more connected to each other and to our work.

For More Information

Please visit the Stanley King homepage for information on who should attend, topics, daily schedule, and more.

Travel

Location

Stevenson School
3152 Forest Lake Rd

Pebble Beach, CA 93953

Guests are welcome to arrive on campus July 26th (the evening before the institute starts) between 6-9:30pm, or on the morning of July 27th. The institute starts at 10am on Monday morning.  

The closest airport is Monterey airport, which is 15 minutes from the campus. If you can fly there, it is a short Uber/Lyft ride to get to Stevenson. 

CSEE will provide a shuttle from the San Jose airport (1.5 hours away) on Sunday evening and then a return on Friday night. Please check back for details. 

Accommodations

Participants will have single, dorm-style accommodations at Stevenson School. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be served on campus, as well as daily snacks and beverages in the mid-morning and mid-afternoon, and during event receptions. Please indicate any allergies or dietary preferences on the registration form.

Testimonials

"Stanley King was easily the best PD I have ever done. From what we learned to the logistics of FVS, everything was phenomenal."

"This event was transformative! I am strongly recommending it to all of my colleagues!"

"When my principal suggested I attend SHK, I did not know what to expect-she said it would be life-changing. I doubted this at first, but then there came moment after moment during every activity where everything came together over and over again; pair that with the evening activities and discussions with other amazing participants and it was really the revitalization that I never knew I needed - as an admin, a teacher, a parent, a spouse, and a person."

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration:  $40

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration:  $80

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend the live session, the all-group portions of this event will be recorded. Recordings can be streamed for one month.

Target Audience

This event is for educators who work with, or interested in learning more about, student or faculty affinity groups.

About

Traditionally, affinity groups are meant to provide safe spaces for those with a shared social identity, to discuss their unique experiences and facilitate positive identity exploration. Designed intentionally, these spaces allow participants to share vulnerably and to feel affirmed. Affinity group meetings can also help students to feel more visible and more valued in the community.

Against the current sociopolitical backdrop, the structure and intended purpose of identity-based student affinity groups can be complicated. Whether you are a school administrator, staff, or classroom teacher looking to jump start or refresh an identity-based student affinity group, this workshop is designed to provide participants with an overview of racial identity development, in addition to practical tools, activity ideas, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Presenter

Jacqueline Nelson is a professional educator and equity practitioner who has worked in and with nonprofit and for-profit organizations, as well as K-12, co-ed and single-gender independent schools for over a decade. She holds a master’s in General and Special Early Childhood Education from Bank Street School of Education and continues to invest in her own professional learning, including Harvard Graduate School of Education’s Justice, Care, and Equity Leadership Institute; Schooling for Critical Consciousness of Racism and Racial Injustice; and Race, Equity, and Leadership Institute.

Prior to her most recent appointment as the Assistant Head of School for Student Life and Community Engagement at Waterside School, in Stamford, Connecticut, Jacqueline served as Director of Equity and Inclusion at St. Luke’s School in New Canaan, Connecticut for six years. A former member of the New York State Association of Independent Schools (NYSAIS) Diversity Committee, Jacqueline currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Connecticut Association of Independent Schools (CAIS) Commission on Diversity at Independent Schools (CODIS) and is an active Pollyanna Partner. Having presented at various local, national and global professional conferences, in her consulting capacity, Jacqueline offers her DEIB expertise to communities and organizations looking to foster belonging through culture shifts and demonstrated commitment to action. Having designed and lead a number of diversity initiatives and equity programs including: anti-bias training and K-12 curriculum design, race-based affinity groups for students and adults, and customized professional development, as an early childhood educator, SEED (Seeking Educational Equity and Diversity) facilitator, DIEB practitioner, consultant, and school leader, Jacqueline advocates for inclusive excellence that inspires perspective-taking promoting dignity for all people.

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration:  $40

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration:  $80
  

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend the live session, the all-group portions of this event will be recorded. Recordings can be streamed for one month.

Target Audience

This event is for educators who intentionally develop student leaders in their schools—either administrators who want to learn about a new tool to apply across their division or classroom teachers who want to examine and build on what they are doing in their classrooms.

About

Developing All Students as Leaders: A Framework for Creating Customized and Complementary Initiatives

Adult leadership development is a multibillion-dollar industry, yet youth leader development efforts remain significantly under researched and rudimentary. This presentation will share information on what is known about youth leadership development and how schools can advance their efforts to incorporate this development through integration with existing programs. Chris Rehm has co-developed a BEST SLOPE framework (Beliefs about leadership, Ethics, Strength, Threads of intention; Self, Learning, Others, Practice, Environment) which provides an accessible, useable method of integrating leadership throughout the entire school. Come learn how your school can become part of the effort to grown youth leadership and better fulfill this essential purpose.

Participants who have existing leadership programs will gain a fresh perspective a practical framework for evaluating their programs, enabling them to leverage existing strengths while addressing areas for growth. Participants who don't have programs will be introduced to a conceptual model to think through applicable work that is already happening in your school with which some small adjustments could become powerful leader development opportunities for students. This approach supports the intentional development of leadership in all students across the school.

Presenter

Chris Rehm is currently the Head of School at Wuhan Yangtze International School. He began his career teaching and working in the IT department at a Swiss boarding school. Subsequently, he stayed in education as an administrator and consultant, eventually becoming a Head of School in the United States. He is passionate about training leaders from an early age to increase access to the future leadership pipeline. He earned his Ph.D. in Strategic Leadership Studies from James Madison University, an M.Ed. from the University of Virginia, and dual degrees in History and Operations & Information Technology from the College of William and Mary.

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration:  $40

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration:  $80
  

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend the live session, the all-group portions of this event will be recorded. Recordings can be streamed for one month.

Target Audience

This event is for educators involved in managing student behavior, especially deans of students, division directors, class deans, and advisors.

About

Behavioral data should do more than document incidents — it should drive meaningful improvement.

In this session, participants will explore how a shared, purpose-driven referral process can transform student support and strengthen school culture. Grounded in adolescent development, discipline and crisis management practices, and framed by the Lippitt-Knoster Model for Managing Change, this presentation demonstrates how to identify trends, engage teachers, and turn patterns into practical action.

Attendees will see real examples of how behavioral data can inform grade-level conversations, restorative practices, professional development, and classroom strategies — shifting the focus from labeling students to building solutions. Participants will leave with tools, templates, and a sustainable framework built on one core idea: Data + Action = Change.

Presenter

Ann Robbins has served as the Academic Dean and Dean of Students at The Steward School in Richmond, VA, for the past five years. Her work is heart work and is at the intersection of teaching, learning, and student development, where she designs systems that help educators know their students deeply, build strong relationships, and take meaningful, responsive action. With a Master of Arts in Teaching from James Madison University, Ann began her career teaching middle and high school English before moving into school leadership. She is passionate about helping both students and teachers reflect on patterns in their work and experiences, using data to drive alignment, growth, and change. She believes that strong relationships, paired with clear and intentional systems, create the conditions for student success. She recognizes the value in leaders and hopes to encourage ways that allow them to find balance and joy in their work. Ann enjoys spending time with her family, including her two young boys. She also loves singing at church and appreciates your book recommendations for her next read.

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration:  $40

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration:  $80

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend the live session, the all-group portions of this event will be recorded. Recordings can be streamed for one month.

Target Audience

About

Whether you are stepping into the role of advisor for the first time or leading and supporting advisory programs at your school, this seminar will provide practical strategies and meaningful reflection to help build a strong foundation for the year ahead. Together, we will explore best practices for launching advisory at the start of the school year, creating intentional structures and routines, fostering consistency, and building authentic relationships with both students and families. Special attention will be given to the advisor’s role in supporting not only the academic growth of students, but also their social-emotional well-being and sense of belonging within the school community.

Participants will leave with actionable takeaways, adaptable advisory ideas, and practical tools they can immediately implement within their own programs. This session is designed to inspire intentionality in advisory work while equipping educators and leaders with concrete approaches to cultivate connection, trust, and meaningful student support throughout the school year. 

Presenter

Kylie Middlebrook serves as the Middle School Director of Community Life at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, where she has spent the past nine years cultivating a vibrant and connected middle school experience grounded in student well-being, leadership development, and community engagement. In her role, Kylie oversees advisory programming, student leadership and activities, service learning, partners with other colleagues for experiential education initiatives, and social-emotional learning collaborations. As a service teacher, former dean, student advisor, and yearbook advisor, she has played a key role in redesigning advisory pedagogy and structure within the middle school and regularly collaborates across departments to strengthen school culture and student support systems. Kylie is passionate about fostering meaningful relationships between students, families, and educators while creating school environments where young adolescents feel known, supported, and empowered to grow. A dedicated educational leader, Kylie enjoys supporting fellow educators through practical, relationship-centered approaches to advisory, experiential education, and student-centered programming.

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please be sure to login to your CSEE account to get the discount. When you register your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 25-26 series of meetings for $100.

About

26-27 Meeting Dates

Please note that all meetings take place at 3:00-4:00pm Eastern/noon-1pm Pacific

• September 17
• October 22
• November 19
• January 28
• February 18 
• May 6

About our Facilitator

Annette Meinheit (she/they) is the Dean of Residential Experience, Senior Class Dean, lead dorm parent, and GSA co-sponsor at Foxcroft School, an all-girls boarding and day school in northern Virginia. She brings over 14 years of experience in education and business operations. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Social Studies Education and an M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language from University of Central Missouri. She started her career as ESL Department Chair at Missouri Military Academy, where she taught and created an ESL program and summer camp, and was an Instructor. She then moved to Lake Tahoe Preparatory School and served as English Language Development Head and then Dean of Students. Originally from Kansas City, Missouri, Annette is a die hard fan of the KC Chiefs and Royals; she liked the Chiefs because it was cool and definitely before Taylor Swift came on the scene. 

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas. These meetings are free for CSEE members, $100 for the year for non-members. They take place on Zoom.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 26-27 series of meetings for $100.

About

26-27 Meeting Dates

All meetings will take place at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific

• Monday, September 14 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific
• Tuesday, October 13 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific
• Monday,  November 16 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific
• Tuesday, January 12 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific
• Tuesday, February 23 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific
• Monday,  April 26 at 1-2 pm Eastern/10-11 am Pacific  

About our Facilitator

Chris Yin, MAT, has been on the Admin Team at Lick-Wilmerding HS for over 20 years and currently serves as the Frosh/Soph Dean of Students. She has also served as Dean of Students at LWHS and on the Board at The San Francisco School, where she chaired the Diversity Committee for several years and facilitated family affinity groups and DEIJ programming for the community. Recently Chris co-facilitated a Bay Area Frosh Deans group that provided support, collegial problem-solving and shared resources during and after COVID. Through her work as an English teacher, affinity group advisor, and Dean, Chris has developed and led numerous initiatives focused on creating a school culture that embraces and supports a diverse student body, including retreats, advising curricula, affinity conferences, frosh leadership programs, and restorative conversations. Chris earned a B.A. in Psychology and her M.A. in Teaching from Brown University. She sits on the Board for the Jarrett Middle School Foundation in Honolulu, HI, supporting underserved students and families. Chris was born and raised on O’ahu, where she often visits, spending time with family, playing games, swimming and snorkeling with her favorite fish: humuhumunukunukuapua’a.

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas. These meetings are free for CSEE members, $100 for the year for non-members. They take place on Zoom.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 25-26 series of meetings for $100.

About

25-26 Meeting Dates

All of the meetings will take place at 11:30am Eastern/8:30am Pacific:

• September 23
• October 21
• November 18
• January 27
• February 24
• April 21

About our Facilitator

Josh Relin, Psy.D. has over 20 years of experience working as a clinical psychologist in school based counseling settings, including at James Baldwin Academy (San Leandro, CA), the University of Massachusetts Amherst (Amherst, MA), and Deerfield Academy (Deerfield, MA), where he served as Director of Counseling from 2015-2022. He currently works in private practice in Northampton and Amherst, MA where he offers psychotherapy and educational coaching and consulting services.

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas. These meetings are free for CSEE members, $100 for the year for non-members. They take place on Zoom.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 26-27 series of meetings for $100.

About

26-27 Meeting Dates

Please note, all meetings will take place at 4-5 pm Eastern/1-2 pm Pacific

• Wednesday, September 23
• Thursday, October 29
• Monday, December 7
• Tuesday, January 19
• Wednesday, February 16
• Wednesday, April 28

About our Facilitator

Courtney Phelps serves as the Service Learning Director at the Episcopal School of Dallas, a private school for ages 3 - 12th grade in Dallas, Texas. In her 8 years as the full time director, and over 10 years of experience in community engagement, Courtney fosters curiosity, promotes critical thinking, and cultivates students' passions to develop impactful community engagement programs. She holds a Master of Public Health from George Washington University and uses her skills in program planning, implementation, and evaluation to further advance ESD's service learning programs. 

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas. These meetings are free for CSEE members, $100 for the year for non-members. They take place on Zoom.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 26-27 series of meetings for $100.

About

These one-hour virtual meetings are for those who lead the DEIB efforts in your schools. Facilitated by Khristi Adams, the Executive Director of Community and Belonging at The St. Paul's Schools, these sessions provide an invaluable opportunity to share best practices and exchange ideas and resources. This dedicated space will help us stay grounded in research, hope, and joy, empowering us to continue this essential work with renewed inspiration and dedication. Let's come together to foster inclusive and thriving educational communities.

26-27 Meeting Dates

All meetings will take place at 4-5 pm Eastern/1-2 pm Pacific

• Monday, September 28  
• Wednesday, November 4 
• Thursday, January 21 
• Tuesday, March 2
• Tuesday, April 6
  

About our Facilitator

Khristi Lauren Adams is the Executive Director of Community and Belonging for the St. Paul’s Schools, a family of independent schools in Baltimore County, MD. In this role, she leads strategic efforts to cultivate inclusive, values-driven communities grounded in the Episcopal tradition, where the dignity of every person is honored and students are formed intellectually, spiritually, and socially. She is also an award-winning author whose work amplifies the voices, spiritual lives, and leadership of Black girls, inviting readers to reimagine theology and community through their experiences.

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas. These meetings are free for CSEE members, $100 for the year for non-members. They take place on Zoom.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 26-27 series of meetings for $100.

About

26-27 Meeting Dates

All meetings will take place from 3:30-4:30pm Eastern / 12:30-1:30pm Pacific

• Tuesday, September 29
• Tuesday, October 27
• Tuesday, December 8
• Tuesday, January 26
• Tuesday, April 6
  

About our Facilitator

Billy Thom, LCSW, is a fifteen-year veteran of education practicing as a basketball coach, teacher, private and school-based licensed social worker, and public speaker. Billy now devotes most of his work at Millbrook School and beyond towards helping adolescents and their families navigate the expected and developmentally appropriate messiness of adolescence, whether that be in relation to mental health, performance mindset, or family systems. Billy is one of Council for Spiritual and Ethical Education’s 2026-27 Visiting Scholars.

Outside of his clinical and educational work, Billy maintains a multi-year Vipassana meditation practice and a deep commitment to yoga as grounding disciplines for presence, compassion, and self-awareness. His current spiritual journey toward Reform Judaism, alongside an interest in mysticism and contemplative practice, increasingly informs his work and his broader interest in helping educational communities cultivate awe, connection, and deeper meaning.

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools  (Please login to the website to get your member discount. Questions? info@csee.org)

Student Attendees    

• Before Sept. 15: $25 each
• Sept. 15 - 28: $50 each
• Sept. 29 & 30: $75 each

Faculty Attendees

• Before Sept. 15: $175 each
• Sept. 15 - 28: $200 each
• Sept. 29 & 30: $225 each

Non-Members  (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register)

Student Attendees    

• Before Sept. 15: $75 each
• Sept. 15 - 28: $100 each
• Sept. 29 & 30: $125 each

Faculty Attendees

• Before Sept. 15: $325 each
• Sept. 15 - 28: $350 each
• Sept. 29 & 30: $375 each

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more people. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Those who are unable to attend the live event time will have access to a recording of the all-group portions to stream for one month.

Target Audience

This program is about strengthening student dialogue for students in grades 8-12. Whether you're an educator wanting to teach lessons about dialogue and leadership, or an educator who wants to have your student leaders learn directly from Jason Craige Harris, this event is for you. We encourage both individual teachers and student leadership groups to attend this workshop.

About

There aren't many examples in public life today of people having inclusive and transformative conversations across differences. Instead, we mostly see examples of what not to do––yelling, blaming, accusing, debating, stereotyping. None of these examples teaches us how to connect with people who may be different from us, how to understand diverse perspectives, and how to build communities based on pluralism and empathy. This workshop invites student leaders from grades 8-12 to learn about diverse practices for engaging in constructive dialogue with others––practices to reset our mindsets and practices to reset our relationships.

In this engaging learning opportunity, students will learn the basics of: what dialogue is and is not, forming community norms, empathic listening and candor with kindness, nonviolent communication, neutral reframing, how to ask powerful questions, storytelling for deep connection, and diverse dialogue methods like Circles. Schools are encouraged to send an adult advisor or two to accompany student attendees.

Presenter

Jason Craige Harris is a strategist, facilitator, mediator, and coach who partners with leaders and organizations to build cultures rooted in dignity and driven by impact. Drawing on insights from multiple fields, he helps teams develop trust, pursue ambitious goals, and design structures that work. A recognized expert in ethical leadership, restorative practices, conflict resolution, and dialogue across difference, Jason is also a writer, spiritual advisor, and sought-after speaker. He harnesses the transformative power of storytelling to foster humility, curiosity, and compassion across sectors, contexts, and age groups. With a deep focus on preventing, analyzing, and repairing breakdowns in relationships and systems, Jason equips others with practical tools for navigating complexity and creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Testimonials from previous event participants:

"Jason was excellent. He was engaging, compelling, and made the material highly digestible.”

"All of the information was useful and very practical. I took copious notes."

"I wish that I was better with words and could articulate how profoundly good this workshop was, how much potential these tools for dialogue have to reshape the way we connect with one another and approach difficult conversations. I love that Jason focused on connection - connecting at the heart level, and he did it in a way that makes it clear that there is nothing soft or namby pamby about communicating non-violently - it is in fact the most courageous and brave thing that we can ever learn to do."

"Every event I’ve attended by CSEE has been valuable, including this one. They always take care to use presenters who are clear, engaging, and able to provide information that is immediately useful in schools. I leave each time with a takeaway I can immediately implement."

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Meetings are free for CSEE member schools and individual learner members (please login and register at the link above; your balance will be $0). Those not in a member school are welcome to register for the 26-27 series of meetings for $100.

About

All Life Worth LivingVirtual Department meetings are at 3:30-4:30 pm Eastern/12:30-1:30 pm Pacific

• Wednesday, September 30
  
• Wednesday, December 2
• Wednesday, January 20
• Wednesday, February 24
• Wednesday, April 28
• Wednesday, May 19

About our Facilitator

Michael LoStracco is the chair of the Religious Studies and Philosophy department at the William Penn Charter School, a pre-K-12 independent Friends school in Philadelphia. He teaches Epistemology and World Religions and has published poetry in a number of online and print journals. In addition to teaching and writing, Michael is a practitioner and advocate of mindfulness in schools and has trained extensively in both secular and religious contexts.

Michael was a CSEE Visiting Scholar in 2024-25. In that position he led the World Religions Virtual Department and researched ways in which philosophy and ethics education can help address issues young people are facing in our hyper-technological, “post-truth” era. He wrote for our Connections Quarterly and presented this workshop on approaches to the meaning crisis, a term being used to describe our current condition, one characterized by the confluence of social anxiety, information overload, and epistemic chaos.

About Virtual Department Meetings

Many educators in CSEE focus areas are in a "department of one" at their schools (ie. the only service learning director, the only world religions teacher). Virtual Department Meetings are an opportunity for these educators to connect with their peers in other independent schools, to talk shop and to share ideas.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Special Event Cancellation Policy

Registration

• Registration before Sept. 15: $150
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 4: $175
• Registration Oct. 5-6: $200

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration before Sept. 15: $275

• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 4: $300

• Registration Oct. 5-6: $325

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more people. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Those who are unable to attend the live event time will have access to a recording of the all-group portions to stream for one month.

Target Audience

This event is for humanities teachers (especially world religions and philosophy), chaplains, counselors, deans of students, student-life directors, class deans and advisory directors.

About

Yale University has a wildly popular Life Worth Living program that examines the existential question of what makes life worth living. Yale is partnering with CSEE to explore how these conversations can occur in secondary schools.

This online event offers a deep dive into the interdisciplinary ethos and pedagogy of a Life Worth Living curriculum, adaptable across school contexts, including world religions, philosophy and other humanities courses, as well as advisory and student-life programming.

Using Life Worth Living principles and pedagogy as a guide, participants will engage in exercises that center truth-seeking pluralism and building communities of inquiry while fostering first-person, relational engagement and the pursuit of existential meaning. Educators will be able to learn from their own experiences in a generative and contemplative atmosphere and will tailor lessons, exercises, and activities to make this material relevant and useful in their own roles and contexts. 

Presenters

Michael LoStracco is the chair of the Religious Studies and Philosophy department at the William Penn Charter School, a pre-K-12 independent Friends school in Philadelphia. He teaches Epistemology and World Religions and has published poetry in a number of online and print journals. In addition to teaching and writing, Michael is a practitioner and advocate of mindfulness in schools and has trained extensively in both secular and religious contexts.

Michael was a CSEE Visiting Scholar in 2024-25. In that position he led the World Religions Virtual Department and researched ways in which philosophy and ethics education can help address issues young people are facing in our hyper-technological, “post-truth” era. He wrote for our Connections Quarterly and presented this workshop on approaches to the meaning crisis, a term being used to describe our current condition, one characterized by the confluence of social anxiety, information overload, and epistemic chaos.

Online Format

CSEE online workshops are done on Zoom, and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you miss the workshop, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

While not required, participants are encouraged to register with colleagues from their school community. Group discounts available.

CSEE Member Schools (please login to the website to receive member rate)

• Registration before Sept. 15:  $225
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 2:  $250
• Registration Oct. 2 - 13:  $275

Non-Members (non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register)

• Registration before Sept. 15:  $425
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 2:  $450
• Registration Oct. 2 - 13:  $475

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more people.

For CSEE member schools bringing their entire Early Childhood Education staff the fee is $150 per person before September 15.

Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Target Audience

This workshop is designed for early childhood teachers and administrators.

About

Helping Young Children Thrive: Emotional Regulation, Cooperation, and Strong Parent Partnerships

In this interactive workshop, renown childhood expert Dr. Laura Markham will help early childhood educators understand behavior through the lens of child development, attachment, and neuroscience. Participants will learn practical tools for supporting emotional regulation, coaching children through big feelings, encouraging cooperation without power struggles, and building trusting partnerships with parents. With real-world examples, classroom-ready strategies, and plenty of opportunities for discussion, this workshop will leave educators with tools they can use immediately to support both children and families.

Agenda

8:30-9:00 Registration

9:00 – 9:20 Welcome & Framing the Day

• A fresh lens on behavior: understanding children through a nervous system and developmental perspective
• Shifting from managing behavior to supporting self-regulation

9:20 – 10:30 Understanding the Child You Have

• Temperament and “goodness of fit”
• Why children resist when they feel misunderstood
• How teachers can help parents better understand—and accept—their unique child
• Language to use with parents to build alignment rather than defensiveness

10:30 – 10:45 Break

10:45 – 12:00 Emotion Coaching in the Classroom

• How self-regulation develops through co-regulation
• The teacher’s role as the emotional anchor
• Practical steps and scripts for supporting big feelings 

12:00 – 1:00 Lunch

1:00 – 2:00 Helping Children WANT to Cooperate

• Why traditional discipline approaches often backfire
• The Calm–Connect–Coach framework in classroom settings
• Setting limits that work without power struggles
• Language teachers can use in everyday moments

2:00 – 2:45 Partnering with Parents

• How to talk with parents about behavior in a way that builds trust
• Bridging differences in expectations or approaches
• Supporting parents in shifting toward connection-based strategies
• How to have supportive, non-judgmental conversations about screens and their impact on behavior, sleep, and emotional regulation

2:45 – 3:00 Closing Q&A and Takeaways

Presenter

Dr. Laura Markham is a clinical psychologist, internationally recognized parenting expert, and bestselling author whose work has helped millions of families create calmer, more connected homes.

Drawing on research in neuroscience, attachment, child development, and emotional intelligence, Dr. Laura helps parents and educators understand children's behavior through a developmental and nervous-system lens. Her practical, evidence-based approach shows adults how to reduce power struggles, strengthen relationships, and help children develop self-regulation.

She is the author of the bestselling books Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids, Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings, and The Peaceful Parent, Happy Kids Workbook, which have been translated into more than 27 languages and read by families around the world.

Through PeacefulParentHappyKids.com and her weekly newsletter, Dr. Laura reaches more than 100,000 parents each week with practical tools for raising resilient, emotionally healthy children.

Testimonial

The CSEE early childhood summit was profoundly impactful and relevant to many issues facing teachers in today's early childhood classrooms. Each year that ai have attended, I have walked away with a treasure trove of knowledge and ideas for implementation in my classroom. I highly recommend this event to early childhood educators as well as administrators and teachers of children of all ages.

CSEE provided such an insightful professional development program regarding early childhood education. I find that often independent school workshops are focused on older children, and preschool/early learning programs are often neglected. I loved that they offered a program so geared towards educators for 7 and under.

From having attended years of CSEE events, thank you for your enriching experiences and practice-changing experiences!

Early Childhood Summit Planning Committee

• Marie Fabian (chair), The Brick Church School 
• Jen Agro, King School
• David Bedard, The Brick Church School
• Dana Copeland, Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church Day School 
• Christine D'Alessandro, King School
  
• Renee Mease, Columbia Greenhouse Nursery School
• Taylor Menges, Barrow Street Nursery
  
• Lisa Samick, Temple Israel Early Childhood Learning
  

Please contact kate@csee.org if you'd like more information on serving on an event planning committee.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Those who are unable to attend the live event time will have access to a recording of the all-group portions to stream for one month.

Target Audience

This virtual event is for teachers, deans, counselors, and school leaders.

About

What does it mean to truly belong? Does our idea of belonging encompass every kind of mind? Drawing on the concept of Umwelt — the unique perceptual world each creature inhabits — this workshop invites educators to explore the intersection of neurodivergence and belonging in order to build more supportive and inclusive classroom and school cultures. We will examine the essential elements of belonging and the active role adults play in shaping school communities, including the structures, language, and daily interactions that foster connection, as well as the barriers that can unintentionally leave students feeling unseen. Grounded in research, practical examples, and school-based experience, participants will leave with actionable strategies to strengthen relationships, cultivate inclusive classrooms, and create conditions in which every kind of mind — every Umwelt — is not just accommodated, but truly welcomed.

Presenter

Elaine Griffin is the Middle School Head at University School of Milwaukee, where she previously served as Assistant Head of Upper School and an English teacher. Her work focuses on building student-centered school cultures through parent education, social-emotional learning, and a thoughtful approach to student technology use. She has collaborated on transformative initiatives, including implementing a phone-free school environment and a block schedule to prioritize face-to-face interactions and foster a strong sense of community. A frequent writer and presenter on these topics, her essays have appeared in Education Next, Independent School Magazine, NAIS’s Independent Ideas Blog, and Connections Quarterly.

Testimonial

"This workshop on neurodiverse learners has instant application and I look forward to using so much of what I learned in shaping my curriculum planning and in shaping the dynamics in my classroom."

"I appreciated the numerous resources Elaine mentioned and the reminder about what UDL can look like in classrooms."

"Very prepared and very clear presentation. Elaine had a very good pace and everything was presented intentionally."

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration before September 15:  $225
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 12:  $250
• Registration Oct. 13 & 14:  $275

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration before September 15:  $375
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 12:  $400
• Registration Oct. 13 & 14:  $425

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend all or part of the live sessions, the all-group portions of these sessions will be recorded and available for streaming for a four-week period.

Target Audience

This event is for division directors, DEIB practitioners, and all other educators who are interested in expanding their cultural knowledge.

About

How can Independent Schools move along the continuum from a history of Indigenous exclusion toward a future of authentic inclusion? This two-part workshop explores the evolution of Indigeneity in education, challenging the "erasure" narrative by highlighting the profound contributions Indigenous communities offer today’s schools. Whether your student body includes Indigenous members or not, this session provides the tools to integrate Indigenous "ways of being" into your curriculum and culture.

Learning Objectives:

• Explore Indigeneity through diverse American Indian and First Nations perspectives.
• Evaluate current practices for honoring Indigenous identities in Independent Schools.
• Develop actionable strategies for resource selection, culturally relevant pedagogy, and community engagement alongside expert practitioners.

Whether your school has a large Indigenous population or not, this workshop invites participants to expand their cultural knowledge by exploring both contemporary and traditional ways of being that offer windows, mirrors, and sliding glass doors to our diverse school communities.

During the first session, participants will be introduced to Indigeneity through both an American Indian and First Nations lens and think critically about the many ways Indigeneity is understood and honored in Independent Schools.

During the second session, participants will hear from practitioners with in-depth experience serving Indigenous communities, and will become better equipped to: identify and develop authentic resources, create culturally-relevant action plans, and engage with local communities.

Presenters

Jordan Zickermann is the Dean of 7/8 Students and Native Affinity Faculty Lead at Breck School. Previously the school’s inaugural PK-12 Dean of Equity, Jordan specializes in the intersection of equity, leadership, and restorative joy. An IDI Qualified Administrator with advanced training from Yale’s School of Management, she focuses on the critical dynamics of academic and social belonging in Independent Schools. Her work is rooted in honoring Indigenous perspectives and fostering inclusive cultures where every student is seen, heard, and valued.

Keven Fletcher serves as Chaplain / Indigenous Liaison at St. Michaels University School, located within Salish territory in Victoria, British Columbia. His school became intentional about Indigenous Connections nine years ago when it formalized its relationship with local, traditionally trained Elders. SMUS strives to be "a community where Indigenous families have reason to feel welcomed and valued, so that we can interact with grace, compassion, and kindness." This has led to whole school participation in traditional ceremonies, divisional/departmental relationships with our Elders, the presence of Indigenous Scholars on campus, whole staff cultural literacy supports, professional development related to curriculum integration for faculty, the commissioning and welcoming of culturally significant pieces, financial and cultural support for Indigenous students, and other intention aligned initiatives. SMUS draws 1,000 students from 25 countries in a JK-12, day and boarding environment.

Testimonials

"The presenters were very accessible and open to questions as they facilitated conversation and scenarios. I appreciated that they acknowledged that this is difficult work that takes time and is sometimes imperfect."

"It was very helpful hearing about the practices of other institutions."

Online Format

CSEE online courses are done via Zoom, and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. The same login will work for all meetings.

Recordings

Should you need to miss a session, the all-group sessions of this event will be recorded. Small group and possibly some all group discussions may not be recorded for privacy purposes. Recordings are available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration before September 15:  $175
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 13:  $200
• Registration Oct. 14 & 15:  $225

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration before September 15:  $325
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 13:  $350
• Registration Oct. 14 & 15:  $375

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend all or part of the live sessions, the all-group portions of these sessions will be recorded and available for streaming for a four-week period.

Target Audience

This workshop is designed for all independent school educators including teachers, deans, counselors, chaplains, and DEI directors. 

About

We see ourselves as open and inclusive people, accepting of differences and treating all people with dignity, kindness, and respect. We want to create and be part of communities that are inclusive and culturally competent toward all people of all backgrounds. Yet, there are implicit and unconscious biases that get in the way of our best selves, and intentions aren't enough to guide our behaviors. Learn the science of cognitive biases we all have and what we can do to mitigate them within ourselves and our organizations.

Presenter

Rosetta Lee serves Seattle Girls’ School in dual roles. SGS is an innovative school for Junior High School girls and nonbinary youth, aiming to empower leaders and change agents and dedicating its energies to a diverse community of students and faculty, an anti-bias mission, and an integrated curriculum. As a faculty member, Rosetta teaches subjects such as science, math, technology, art, ethics, social justice, and more. As an outreach specialist, she designs and delivers trainings internally for the SGS community as well as externally for schools, nonprofits, government agencies, and businesses. Since 2004, Rosetta has been a diversity speaker and trainer on a variety of topics, including cross cultural communication, identity development, implicit and unconscious bias, gender and sexuality diversity, facilitation skills, affinity groups, and bullying in schools. She has worked with over 350 K-12 schools throughout the country, along with over 100 colleges and universities, nonprofits, businesses, and more.

Additional Experience and Awards:

• Former Faculty member, National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) Diversity Leadership Institute
• Former President on the Board of Directors of SMARTgirls
• Former Director on the Board of the Northwest Association for Biomedical Research (NWABR)
• Recipient of the 2007 Outstanding Partner in Education Award from the Northwest Association for Biomedical Research
• Co-Chair of the 2006 NAIS People of Color Conference
• Recipient of the 2005 Distinguished Teacher Award for the Washington Federation of Independent Schools
  

Testimonials

"Rosetta Lee was fantastic! She speaks very clearly and practically. It is extremely helpful to have all these tools to bring back to my teaching practice. She was very patient and took the time to answer everyone's questions. Rosetta gave extremely thoughtful responses and make everyone feel heard."

"Rosetta used stories and examples to make the contents easily understandable. Her passion and earnestness shine through clearly. I hope to attend more workshops facilitated by Rosetta!"

"Rosetta was thoughtful, intelligent, and with a great sense of humor. Her presentation was truly helpful. I'm already using some of her guidance."

"I love Rosetta's sincere tone and her real life examples. She makes breaks down complicated topics so they can be discussed in authentic and sensible ways. Just what I need right now as an educator and citizen."

Online Format

CSEE online courses are done on Zoom, and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Those who are unable to attend the live event time will have access to a recording of the all-group portions to stream for one month.

Target Audience

This virtual event is for Middle and Upper School classroom teachers.

About

Meeting the needs of neurodivergent students doesn't require an overhaul of how you teach. In this practical, teacher-focused workshop, you’ll learn instructional strategies built around small, accessible adjustments that make a meaningful difference for students with common learning differences and social-emotional challenges. These same strategies strengthen learning for all students, including neurotypical adolescents who struggle with executive functioning and focus. You'll leave with instructional models and “lite lifts” that embed support seamlessly into everyday practice, reducing barriers, increasing equity, and empowering every learner in the room — without adding to your already full plate.

Presenter

Elaine Griffin is the Middle School Head at University School of Milwaukee, where she previously served as Assistant Head of Upper School and an English teacher. Her work focuses on building student-centered school cultures through parent education, social-emotional learning, and a thoughtful approach to student technology use. She has collaborated on transformative initiatives, including implementing a phone-free school environment and a block schedule to prioritize face-to-face interactions and foster a strong sense of community. A frequent writer and presenter on these topics, her essays have appeared in Education Next, Independent School Magazine, NAIS’s Independent Ideas Blog, and Connections Quarterly.

Testimonials

"This workshop on neurodiverse learners has instant application and I look forward to using so much of what I learned in shaping my curriculum planning and in shaping the dynamics in my classroom."

"I appreciated the numerous resources Elaine mentioned and the reminder about what UDL can look like in classrooms."

"Very prepared and very clear presentation. Elaine had a very good pace and everything was presented intentionally."

Online Format

CSEE online courses are held on Zoom and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. Should you need to miss the session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Event plus hotel (Wednesday and Thursday nights)

• Registration before Sept. 15: $875
• Registration Sept. 15 - Sept. 23: $900
• Registration Sept. 24 - Oct. 22: $950

Day only ticket

• Registration before Sept. 15: $675
• Registration Sept. 15 - Sept. 23: $700
• Registration Sept. 24 - Oct. 22: $750

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

Event plus hotel (Wednesday and Thursday nights)

• Registration before Sept. 15: $1275
• Registration Sept. 15 - Sept. 23: $1300
• Registration Sept. 24 - Oct. 22: $1350

Day only ticket

• Registration before Sept. 15: $975
• Registration Sept. 15 - Sept. 23: $1000
• Registration Sept. 24 - Oct. 22: $1050

Target Audience

This workshop is for middle and high school educators, particularly those who teach Health and Wellness classes and those responsible for social-emotional learning.

About

Teaching students about how to take care of themselves, how to take care of others, and how to care for a community is complex. This workshop will help you consider questions such as: What should be taught in a health and wellness curriculum? What does an inclusive health and wellness curriculum look like? Who should teach health and wellness classes? What are opportunities for health and wellness curriculum inside and outside of classrooms? How can a school’s mission be used to advance the health and wellbeing of students, families, and employees?

In part one of this series (October 22), participants will explore their vision(s) for health and wellness education in their school and aligning that vision with their school's mission. Various structures for building a comprehensive and community-driven health and wellness program will be considered, along with their respective advantages and disadvantages. Participants will also learn strategies for cultivating buy-in amongst school stakeholders in order to build a successful health and wellness program. Participants will consider strategies for building a scope and sequence, designing lessons, and decision-making tools for choosing program topics.

In part two of the series (October 23), participants will dive into the complexity of building health and wellness programming. Participants will explore aspects of health and wellness design such as the tension between reactive and preventative systems, program title, assessment, faculty development, and program evaluation. Part two will also invite participants to consider the student experience of health and wellness programming, approaching complex situations and topics, getting creative with limited time and resources, and development for health and wellness program leaders.

Throughout this workshop, participants will be invited to apply what they are learning to their own school, and learn from other school professionals, as they can create (or rework) a health and wellness curriculum. Participants should be prepared to engage in deep thinking and creative visioning, while also building practical structures that can be applied at their own schools to advance health and wellbeing education for all. 

In the interest of providing an experience that focuses on wellness, this conference will be structured with a presentation in the morning and then afternoon activities. Thursday afternoon will be a group trip to Lakeside School and Friday afternoon will be a museum experience.

Presenter

Julie Lutton  (she/her/hers) is the 5th-12th Grade Human Development and Health Department Head at Lakeside School in Seattle, Washington. She works with Human Development and Health teachers and Lakeside’s administration to create curriculum and programming for students, faculty, staff, and parents and guardians centered on adolescent health, development, identity, and wellbeing. Julie teaches Human Development 6 and Human Development 9 at Lakeside, is also immersed in diversity, equity, and inclusion work through AWARE (Alliance of White Anti-Racist Educators), and serves as a hiring committee lead at Lakeside. A licensed mental health counselor, Julie spent her first eight years at Lakeside as an Upper School Counselor, providing support and therapy for high school students. Previous to Lakeside, she completed her graduate work at Boston College and worked in counseling at Phillips Academy (Andover, MA) and Loyola Academy (Wilmette, IL) and in alcohol and drug prevention (Chestnut Hill, MA). Julie’s work and interests center on supporting students to learn deeply about their identity and the identities of those around them and facilitating student learning about the skills they need to care for themselves and their communities beyond high school.

Testimonials

Julie is one of the best presenters I have had the chance to learn from. She is so thorough, thoughtful and clearly knows her stuff and her audience well.

One of the best-prepared, most thought-provoking PD presenters I've seen. Just outstanding!

So much digestible information. I came away with clarity and actionable items.

I really appreciated way she took a step back to help us think about the big picture and how to begin thinking about H+W in a school.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

While not required, participants are encouraged to register with colleagues from their school community. Group discounts available.

CSEE Member Schools (please login to the website to receive member rate)

• Registration before Sept. 15:  $225
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 2:  $250
• Registration Oct. 2 - 13:  $300

Non-Members (non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register)

• Registration before Sept. 15:  $425
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 2:  $450
• Registration Oct. 2 - 13:  $475

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more people. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Target Audience

This workshop is designed for early childhood teachers and administrators.

About

No Better Time Than Now: Growing (and Protecting) Your Early Childhood Sexuality Education Curriculum

Join early childhood educators from independent schools across the country for a collaborative and inspiring summit dedicated to the unique joys, challenges, and opportunities of working with young children. This gathering will create space for educators to connect with colleagues who understand the rhythms and realities of early childhood programs and the important work of nurturing curiosity, confidence, creativity, and belonging in our youngest learners.

It’s vital that families and schools establish themselves proactively as the primary—as in, first and most important—reference points in children’s lives around issues of sex, gender, and reproduction. When adults put off, avoid altogether, or water down this process, they virtually guarantee that other sources, including peers, older children and teens, social media, the Internet, marketers, and mass media, will “get there first.” In a world where the lines between the adult world and the child’s world continue to vanish, the default option of deferring to these sources becomes increasingly harmful. Conversely, when adults engage young children directly around these issues, they significantly impact the course of healthy sexual development.

In independent schools, the great majority of preschool and lower school teachers are inherently capable of guiding meaningful conversations with younger children about human sexuality, especially when understood in its broadest sense. This day-long, interactive workshop will provide the awareness and skills teachers need to bring this topic into their curriculum comfortably and confidently.

Essential Content:

• Getting Ready to Get Ready: A 20-Point Checklist
• What is “Human Sexuality Education” as distinguished from “Sex Education”?
• Learning to look at the topic of sexuality through the eyes of young children, and to think pedagogically, rather than emotionally, about this subject matter
• Understanding why young children’s questions about their “origins” are about science, not “sex”
• Addressing the self-sabotaging “double standards” most schools erroneously apply to teaching about sexuality in the early grades that make adults afraid of the "wrong things”
• "Disappearing” the misplaced anxieties parents, schools and teachers commonly apply to broaching the subject of sexuality
• Creating authentic and ongoing partnerships with parents around supporting healthy sexual development
• Enlisting/providing ongoing, explicit, and effective administrative support
• Anticipating, heading off, diffusing, and responding successfully to potential "push back" from parents or others
• Designing creative classroom environments supportive of fun, safe, and open discussion
• Responding to children’s spontaneous questions with comfort and confidence and within a developmentally attuned context
• Utilizing accurate sexual language comfortably and appropriately in the classroom

Presenter

Deborah Roffman 

Named one of Time Magazine’s “Top Sixteen Parenting Experts for the 21st Century,” Deborah Roffman, MS, CSE is a sexuality educator, consultant, and author based in Baltimore, Maryland, where she has taught sexuality education in the lower, middle, and upper schools at The Park School of Baltimore. Debbie has written three acclaimed books for parents and teachers, plus most recently, The Science of Babies: A Little Book for Big Questions about Bodies, Birth and Families, available in both English and Spanish for young children and their parents and teachers. In addition to her constant writing and teaching, she’s worked with parents, teachers, counselors, nurses, administrators, DEI professionals, students, alumni, and trustees at more than 400 schools and organizations across the country.

Deborah is referred to by her colleagues as the most articulate professional voice in the US on the need for broad-based human sexuality education. Her ability to find common ground by keeping the focus on young people and their universal needs around healthy sexual development is one of her most important gifts. She has wide appeal to schools across the independent school spectrum and to parents of all political stripes, religions, and backgrounds, as demonstrated through national recognition from such seemingly diverse groups as the Planned Parenthood Federation of America (the coveted Mary Lee Tatum Apple Award) and the National Federation of Republican Women (Favorite Teacher Award). What drives Debbie’s work is a single vision: that one day it will be families and schools―not media, merchandisers, entertainers, peers, and popular culture―who become the primary, as in first and most important, resources for young people about human sexuality.

Please read more about her work at: Talk2MeFirst.com

Testimonial

The CSEE early childhood summit was profoundly impactful and relevant to many issues facing teachers in today's early childhood classrooms. Each year that ai have attended, I have walked away with a treasure trove of knowledge and ideas for implementation in my classroom. I highly recommend this event to early childhood educators as well as administrators and teachers of children of all ages.

CSEE provided such an insightful professional development program regarding early childhood education. I find that often independent school workshops are focused on older children, and preschool/early learning programs are often neglected. I loved that they offered a program so geared towards educators for 7 and under.

From having attended years of CSEE events, thank you for your enriching experiences and practice-changing experiences!

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

• Registration before Sept. 15: $150
• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 30: $175
• Registration Oct. 31 - Nov. 2: $200

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration before Sept. 15: $275

• Registration Sept. 15 - Oct. 30: $300

• Registration Oct. 31 - Nov. 2: $325

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Note: For those unable to attend the live session, the all-group portions of this event will be recorded. Recordings can be streamed for one month.

Target Audience

DEIB leaders, division directors, heads of school, and deans of students.

About

When schools are under pressure, DEIB leaders are often asked to carry competing demands at once: protect people, protect the institution, and protect the work while the ground keeps shifting. This session strengthens DEIB leaders’ capacity to hold the center by anchoring decisions and messaging in mission.

Together we’ll map where pressure lands (language, systems, stakeholders, governance), distinguish true legal/reputational risk from discomfort and noise, and practice a communication approach that protects clarity, care, and coherence. Through guided rehearsal and a brief scenario clinic, participants will develop steadying language that tells the truth, lowers the temperature, and keeps dignity in the room. Participants will leave with practical tools they can use immediately.

Agenda

• Opening Frame: Naming Cultural Fracture
• Where Fracture Shows Up: Polarization, Story-Making, Urgency for Relief
• Mission as an Operational Tool Practice: Protecting Clarity, Care, and Coherence in Tense Moments
• Rehearsal: Steadying Language for Difficult Conversations
• 30-Day Action Planning: Leading with Purpose and Reducing Factionalism

Presenter

Dr. Valaida L. Wise is an experienced educational leader who served for more than 25 years as Head of School across several independent schools in the Maryland and DC area. She is also an accomplished university educator, having taught graduate-level courses in research methods and issues of social justice at Johns Hopkins University and the University of Wisconsin River Falls. Known for creating learning experiences that are engaging, innovative, and practical, Dr. Wise supports emerging leaders in understanding organizational behavior, research methods, and equity-centered practice. Dr. Wise brings deep governance experience through extensive service on boards across the independent school landscape, including leadership roles as board chair and trustee for multiple institutions and associations. She is the founder of Dr. Valaida Wise Consulting, LLC, where she partners with schools, nonprofits, and organizations on leadership, governance, and diversity, equity, and inclusion strategy. A respected speaker and scholar, Dr. Wise has published work focused on leadership, governance, early childhood education, and equity in education, with particular attention to the intersections of leadership, governance, and equity.  

Online Format

CSEE online courses are done on Zoom, and include a mix of presentation and group discussion. Once you register, you will receive an automated email with your unique Zoom login for the event. The same login will work for all meetings. Should you need to miss a session, this event will be recorded, with recordings available to stream for one month after the live event.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

Registration 

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? Info@csee.org)

• Event plus two nights accommodation at Hotel, including some meals*:
  • Early Bird registration before September 15: $775
  • Registration September 15 - September 28: $800
  • Registration after September 28: $850
    
    
• Day-Only Attendees (includes lunch both days):
  • Early Bird registration before September 15: $575
  • Registration September 15 - September 28: $600
  • Registration after September 28: $650

Non-Member Schools (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Event plus two nights accommodation at Hotel including some meals*: 
  • Early Bird registration before September 15: $1175
  • Registration September 15 - September 28: $1200
  • Registration after September 28: $1250

   

• Day-Only Attendees (includes lunch both days):
  • Early Bird registration before September 15: $975
  • Registration September 15 - September 28: $1000
  • Registration after September 28: $1050

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration. 

*Our policy for hotel cancellation differs from our event cancellation because of differing obligations for hotel contracts. For this event, you must cancel 30 days before the event to be refunded hotel costs.

Target Audience

This event is for Middle School teachers and administrators. Schools are encouraged to send teams when possible, to help create better understanding and conversation during the Summit that will lead to progress and action when they return.

About

The CSEE Middle School Summit is a two-day professional development workshop designed to help all Middle School educators gain greater understanding, skills, and confidence in how to approach the many difficult conversations that arise in schools.

The Summit will begin with learning several key strategies attributed to successfully engaging in a conversation with others to help bring about meaningful, thoughtful, and positive outcomes with integrity, honesty, and grace. Participants will engage in role-playing exercises specifically centered on the complexities of early adolescence while considering the many constituents that intersect with the Middle School community. One of the key skills explored will be learning about how to break down the conversational process into manageable parts through group practice and structured feedback.

The Summit will conclude with creating a Conversational Tool Kit filled with everything learned over the course of the two days, as well as planning for conversation(s) that are on participants’ minds when they return to their respective schools.

Agenda

Thursday, November 5, 2026

• Welcome & Warm-Up
• The Table of Contents of Difficult Conversations
• Pre-Workshop Assessment: Skills Strengths/Challenges, Goals Difficult Conversations
• Part I: Identifying The Conflict Difficult Conversations
• Part II: Planning The Conversations Difficult Conversations
• Part III: Listening & Asking / Responding

Friday, November 6, 2026

• Welcome & Warm-Up Difficult Conversations
• Part IV: Knowing Your Tendencies Difficult Conversations
• Part V: Following Up The Conversations
• The Tool Kit Workshop/Planning for Conversations at School

Presenter

Tung Trinh currently serves as the Dean of Faculty at Collegiate School in Richmond, Virginia and coaches Varsity Spring Track. Previously, Tung was Collegiate’s Head of the Middle School working with students, faculty, staff, and parents to help provide support for a meaningful learning experience. Prior to joining Collegiate, Tung served as the Head of the Middle School and Middle School Dean of Students at Garrison Forest School in Owings Mills, Maryland, an all-girls preschool-12th Grade with a boarding program. Tung started his teaching career at Shore Country Day School in Beverly, Massachusetts in the History and Social Studies department as well as coaching various sports.

During his time working with Middle Schoolers, Tung has developed a deep appreciation for the tremendous authenticity and growth that takes place during early adolescence. Middle Schoolers are at the wonderful stage in their life where learning takes on a whole new meaning with the development of their own self-agency while negotiating the balance of independence and building healthy relationships with their peers and teachers. Tung particularly enjoys thinking and dreaming about programming around community building, advisory activities, social-emotional learning, parent partnerships,interdisciplinary curriculum development, and just being part of the fabric of a school in general.

Middle School Summit Planning Committee

Tung Trinh (chair), Collegiate School 

Cali Burks, Montclair-Kimberley Academy

Pete DiPace, Ransom Everglades School

Peter Gaynor, Montclair-Kimberley Academy

Julio Gonzalez, Army and Navy Academy

Shannon Johnson, The Lab School of Washington

Kristopher Maguire, Brookstone School

Crosby Newcomer, The Buckley School

Please contact kate@csee.org if you'd like more information on serving on an event planning committee

Testimonials

The Middle School Summit gave me good ideas and actionable items I can start when I return to school. I loved networking with colleagues at other schools.

Knowing that all over the nation, teachers are experiencing similar issues was so helpful. The problem-solving that we can take back to school is amazing!

The presentations were jam-packed full of information and the break-out groups were perfect for applying the information in a usable way.

Tung was incredible. The presentation was super teacher-friendly and thoughtful. I'd love to work with him again.

A wonderful gathering of thoughtful and talented Middle School educators, who are committed to their craft. The formal presentations and informal chats were gold.

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy

CSEE Member Schools (Please login to the website to receive member rate. Questions? info@csee.org)

• Registration before September 15:  $225
• Registration September 15 - November 2:  $250
• Registration November 3 - November 9:  $275

Non-Members (Non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register.)

• Registration before September 15:  $425
• Registration September 15 - November 2:  $450
• Registration November 3 - November 9:  $475

Group rate of 10% off is available for schools bringing 5 or more faculty. Please call CSEE at 800-298-4599 for group registration.

Target Audience

 For school administrators, teachers, and staff

About

From Conflict to Connection: Conflict Transformation Skills for School Educators

Conflict can feel so overwhelming that we often try to avoid it. This in-person training seeks to build your readiness and confidence for the inevitable conflicts which often arise in a school community. Participants will learn how to approach conflict through a restorative—not punitive—lens to build greater connection, understanding and healing. 

We will discuss the levels of conflict that impact us and learn how the elements of dignity and basic human needs support better conflict transformation. Participants will walk away with easy-to-learn and highly effective skills for managing and transforming conflict, including strategies to use in the moment whether it's an issue with a student, co-worker or parent.  After participating in this workshop you will be armed with tools necessary to confidently address conflicts in the moment and build deeper connections in your classroom and school! 

Presenter

Katherine Peabody www.kkpeabodymediation.com is a Certified Conflict Mediator and Restorative Circle-Keeper who works with families, school communities and workplace teams to build meaningful connections and resolve conflicts compassionately. She implements restorative practices such as conflict coaching, mediation, conflict transformation training and Restorative Circles. Conflict is never just about concrete issues we see. Restorative practices help uncover the relational, emotional and energetic elements which also exist within a conflict. Katherine has designed and presented in-school programs for team building, conflict resolution, empathy, as well as Restorative Circle training for faculty and students within independent schools. She has worked with division heads, diversity, equity & belonging teams, school psychologists, teachers, parents, athletic teams and arts organizations. She does Conflict Resolution training for organizations including CSEE www.csee.org. Katherine received her BS in Anthropology from Santa Clara University. She sat on the board of the Williamstown Theater Festival www.wtfestival.org from 2008-2024. She is currently a Board Member at Hidden Water www.hiddenwatercircle.org, and a Trustee at Friends Seminary www.friendsseminary.org

Participants can arrive Wednesday evening for a casual networking event. This event runs Thursday and Friday. 

CSEE Member Schools (please login to the website to get your member discount)

• Registration before September 15: $325 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday)
• Registration September 15-November 1: $350 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday)
• Registration November 2-November 12: $400 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday)

Nonmembers (non-members can register as guests and do not need to login to the website to register)

• Registration before September 15: $575 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday)
• Registration September 15-November 1: $600 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday)
  
• Registration November 1-November 12: $650 (includes the event and lunch on both Thursday and Friday 

Target Audience

This conference is for all educators, administrators, and service-learning directors in any division, who are seeking to deepen their service learning program and their own professional growth, and to network with peers around the country.

About

Building Student Agency through Service Learning: Turning Ideas into Action

We are more connected than ever before. The digital world gives us immediate access to world news, global issues, and to one another. As educators we can move students beyond awareness to authentic action that strengthens academic learning, wellbeing, leadership, and community. Service learning provides a road map for significant contributions and authentic solutions.

Our students have a heart for service and ideas for action. With service learning as a reliable pathway, we can bring topics they care about to the forefront of academics, while still meeting – and exceeding – the standards for developing knowledge, skills, and dispositions. The process provokes meaningful inquiry, curiosity, discovery, and growth.

During our two days of collaborative interactions, explore how service learning builds the capacity for our students to:

• Conduct social analysis through action research—a method applicable to every research and inquiry task
• Authenticate community assets and needs—increase the ability to make local and global connections
• Participate in deep thinking that readily connects to social and emotional development and manifesting a more just community and world
• Elevate question asking skills—a transferable ability that augments all learning
• Create mutually respectful, sustainable reciprocal partnerships—develop understanding of the importance of clarifying roles and responsibilities and meeting personal and group obligations
• Reflect by choice on significant moments and learning—and enjoy the process of reflection
• Capture the stories and demonstrate the range of experiences and learning—resulting in the development of multiple competencies

A key feature of our time together is exploring curriculum planning for academic integration that aims for interdisciplinary connections, possible at all grade levels. During our highly interactive time together, you are guaranteed takeaway strategies that elevate student participation and activate students as catalysts for change.

DAY ONE: Best Practices

Explore foundational concepts of service learning best practice. Hear stories that inspire and give credibility to the value and impact of this pedagogy. Participate in experiences that clarify each of the Five Stages of Service Learning in a dynamic session. Set priorities for your program that clarifies what matters most to build a sustainable and purposeful ethos of service. Consider why the concept of “community” and reciprocal partnerships is a centerpiece of this approach.

DAY TWO: Curricular Integration PLUS . . .

During this action packed day, experience diverse ways to integrate service learning into your curriculum (it’s easier than you think!). Take a deep dive into the process of reflection to understand its value and necessity, plus methods that attract students. Revisit your priorities; prepare your plan for next steps. 

Presenter

Cathryn Berger Kaye, M.A.,

Service Summit Planning Committee

• Amy Clark (chair) Rumson Country Day School
• Kelly Campbell, Porter-Gaud School
• Amy Cataldo, Edmund Burke School
• Rene Jimenez, Dalton School
  
• Renee Pitchford, Ravenscroft School
• Debbie Rivera Murphy, Dwight-Englewood School
• Rebecca Stolzenback, Gilman School
  
• Petra van't Slot, Dwight-Englewood School 

Please contact kate@csee.org if you'd like more information on serving on an event planning committee

Testimonials

"This conference was beyond inspiring and showed the necessity, practicality, and applicability of service learning across curricula."

"Great conference with a lot of valuable information. This conference also made me put my fear aside of starting something at my school."

"This workshop was practical and provided time to work on how I can apply the lessons to our individual programs at our respective schools."

"I learned so much. This conference was invaluable to me. THANK YOU!!"

About CSEE

CSEE is an association that supports independent schools throughout North America to foster communities distinguished in character, integrity, equity, belonging, and purpose.

See CSEE's Event and Cancellation Policy