Kelly is a Senior Program Specialist at ThriveWay. She has 25 years of experience in education as an elementary teacher and school counselor for elementary, middle, and high school students. She has a B.S. in Elementary Education and a Master's in School Counseling. She enjoys travel, tennis, and spending time with family, especially her two grandchildren.

Session Title: School Campaigns to Improve Overall School Culture and Climate

This session will provide attendees with a plethora of ideas on how to implement school campaigns to improve school climate and culture.

This session is best suited for Elementary/Intermediate grade levels and any target audience.

Sallye R. Longshore is the Director of the Alabama Department of Child
Abuse and Neglect Prevention, “The Children’s Trust Fund.” Ms. Longshore was appointed to this position in 2013 and reappointed by Governor Ivey in 2017. ADCANP also serves as the state chapter of Prevent Child Abuse America. Ms. Longshore serves on numerous state boards and task forces, including the Governor’s Office of Workforce and Education Transformation, the Governor’s Human Trafficking Task Force, and the Governor’s Children’s
Cabinet. Ms. Longshore has served on the Board of Directors of the
Children’s Trust Fund Alliance and served on the chapter network executive council of Prevent Child Abuse America. She has worked in the fields of education and child advocacy for forty-six years. Ms. Longshore earned a B.S. degree in Child Development, an M.S. degree in Human Development and Family Life, and an Ed.S. degree in Early Childhood Education. She and her husband, Will, are the proud parents of five grown children and grandparents to a granddaughter.

Session Title: The Role of Mandatory Reporters of Child Maltreatment in a Post-Pandemic Environment

We know that many children have and are suffering from Adverse Childhood Experiences that affect their health and learning ability, especially in light of the recent pandemic. This session explores the impact of ACEs and includes the Strengthening Families framework as a tool for bringing positive experiences into children's lives. We will also discuss the roles of mandatory reporters and being trauma-informed.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Kimberly Delahoussaye is a licensed professional counselor from Thrive Counseling and Psychiatry that works with clients in person in Gulf Shores and virtually throughout Alabama, Florida, and Texas. Kim received her Master's of Counseling Psychology from Southwestern Assemblies of God University. Kim has found a passion for people who have experienced trauma, meeting them in their darkest moments, and helping them heal for something that feels impossible. Kim grew her knowledge and passion from over 4 years of work with a local child advocacy center in Texas and 6 years volunteering with Royal Family Kids Camp. Kim is a TBRI practitioner and has presented to a diverse group of participants from foster families, church staff, and clinicians. Kim enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for helping people who have experienced trauma find healing, normalcy, and recovery through training and speaking opportunities.

Session Title: Introduction to Trust-Based Relational Interventions

In 2023 many of our adolescents and adults have experienced complex trauma, demonstrating an interactive set of psychological and behavioral issues. Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) is a holistic model that trains care providers to create effective support and treatment for children and adults alike. TBRI has been applied in orphanages, therapy centers, courts, residential treatment facilities, group homes, homes of all kinds, churches, and schools. It has been used effectively with children and youth of all ages and all risk levels. This session is meant to be a brief introduction to TBRI to be followed up by further training in the future.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Jeff McClure has worked in education for over 25 years - both public and private. He attended Troy University, where he received a B.S. in Psychology, an M.S. in Special Education, a M.S. in School Counseling, and Instructional Leadership and Administration. He holds professional teacher certifications in special education, guidance and counseling, and administration and supervision. He has worked as a curriculum specialist, a software trainer and presenter, a behavior specialist, a classroom teacher, and a building supervisor throughout his educational career. He is currently serving the Pike County School System as an Administrative Assistant to the Superintendent (Assistant Superintendent), responsible for Prevention and Support and Accelerated Learning: Academy, Dual Enrollment, and Career Technical Education Programs. He and his wife, Abbey, live in the Pike County area with their two sons; both are products of the Pike County School System and have participated in some of the exciting educational programs available.

Session Title: Restructuring, Reorganizing, and Relaunching Peer Helpers

The motivation to implement any program cannot be to simply satisfy legislative or local policies. The goal must be more profound, such as positively impacting the lives of the students with whom we work, providing social support via Peer Helpers, and a research-based curriculum to provide training on positive choices and alternatives to destructive behaviors via the P.A.T.H. curriculum. The goal (vision, purpose) must be inspirational, the implementation must be thorough, and the people must care.

This session is best suited for school administrators at any grade level.

Laura Bruce is the Mental Health Services Coordinator for Ozark City
Schools for three years. She began her career in social services developing workshops and leading trainings for over 10 years for New York University and other non-profit organizations in NY, DC and Baltimore. She has developed and implemented the Love Is Not Abuse training for Liz Claiborne
and facilitated for the Gottman Institute assisting couples and families with relationship skill building. Laura serves on numerous boards in the Wiregrass, such as the Mary Hill Family Service Center, Dale County Performing Arts Council, The Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Alabama, United Way and the Historical Preservation Committee of Ozark.

Session Title: Is it Rocket Science? Pointers on Preparing Elementary Peer Helpers

Enjoy an engaging session (yes, you will get up) on how to boost the
confidence of your elementary students on how to be the very best Peer Helper they can be! Students deserve encouragement, especially being in the unique role of a Peer Helper. After all, it's not Rocket Science!

Session will be co-presented by Shelia McLeod.

This session is best suited for Elementary/Intermediate grade levels and all target audiences.

Jasmine Coleman, Ph.D., is a postdoctoral fellow in psychology at the University of South Alabama. Dr. Coleman’s program of research focuses on using qualitative and quantitative methods to identify psychological and social promotive, risk, and protective factors that contribute to the development and maintenance of aggression. She is particularly interested in the unique and interactive roles of family, peer, and community microsystems. Her research program aims to develop, implement, and evaluate prevention and intervention programs that reduce violence in black youth from under-resourced communities.

Session Title: Understanding and Preventing Youth Violence

During the session, attendees will learn about the types of youth violence, the possible causes and consequences of youth violence, and strategies to reduce and prevent youth violence.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Jennifer McGriff is a Behavior Management Support Coach within the Etowah County School System. She started her career in education as an English teacher and also served as a tutor for English learners. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education from JSU and a Master of Arts in Education EL from UAB. She is certified in Conscious Discipline and Classroom 180. She has a passion for helping marginalized young people overcome barriers and find their place in their local communities. Jennifer is passionate about networking with local community members to facilitate connections for young people and feels this is key to their future success. She lives in Southside with her husband, Craig. She has two children and one grandchild.

Session Title: Time is (Not) on my Side!

As educators, time, or lack thereof, is one of our biggest challenges; some days, there are simply not enough hours in the day! Since we do not have the power to add hours to the day, we have to think outside of the box. Through hands-on, engaging activities, this session will provide attendees with creative ways and ideas to make the MOST of their time. Attendees will also focus on strategic and creative ways to schedule and execute Peer Helpers Program training.

Session will be co-presented by Janet Wilson.

This session is suitable for Middle/High school grade levels and all target audiences.

Hello, I am Joe Biggs, Jr., a man from Tuscaloosa, AL (Roll Tide!!). I am a husband and father of 6. My beautiful wife and I enjoy spending time with family and traveling when we can, always looking to create memories. This is my 14th year in education. I serve as Assistant Principal at Gordo High School. This is my 2nd year at Gordo High and my 3rd year of being an Assistant Principal. I've taught Grades 2, 5, and 6. I've spent the bulk of my teaching career in the 6th grade. I enjoy the simple things in life and love to be around positive energy. Each one, teach one!

Session Title: "Mean Girls to Respectful Girls/Cultivating Tolerance Among Female Students"

The content discussed in this break-out session will help bridge the gap between leaders of the school building and some of the troublesome students in a school setting. Attendees will learn to gather the attention of students with ulterior motives and use that force to galvanize their student body.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Patricia has worked diligently for the past 13 years to raise awareness and
train others about the horrible crimes of human trafficking. She is the founder and Chair of the North Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force and Co-Founder and Chair of the Alabama Human Trafficking Task Force. She also advocates for better state laws to fight trafficking and ensure victims have access to the trauma-informed services they need.

Session Title: Human Trafficking: The New Face of Slavery

This session provides a discussion of what human trafficking is, who is most vulnerable, where it occurs, grooming techniques, how to identify, internet challenges, and obstacles to ending trafficking. The main focus of this session is sex trafficking; however, labor trafficking will also be discussed with examples.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Tina Evans is the Counseling & Assessment Specialist for Jefferson County Schools. As an accomplished educator, she has worked in several educational capacities at all grade levels. As an advocate for both mental health and the empowerment of young women, Tina is actively involved with several mental health organizations providing support and mentoring to teenage girls that are transitioning from foster care. Outside of education, Mrs. Evans is involved in several civic organizations in the greater Birmingham community. She is a current board member for Kids Play Alabama, which aids families with the cost of sports-associated expenses. Tina volunteers with the Senior Talk Line, a free telephone reassurance service for senior citizens. Mrs. Tina Evans resides in Jefferson County with her husband, daughter, and fur baby. Her interests include music, traveling, and community volunteering.

Session Title: What Is a Compassion Fatigue? Glad you Asked!

Tina's presentation will explore the differences between compassion fatigue and educator burnout. The creation of a self-care plan that will assist in educator motivation.

This session is best suited for school administrators at any grade level.

A native of Cleveland, Ohio, Amanda moved to Alabama in 2006 and received her BA in Philosophy from The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Amanda is the Founding Director of the Magic City Acceptance Center (MCAC). In the number of years as director, she has been instrumental in expanding services to over 1,800 LGBTQ youth, ages 13-24 across the state of Alabama.

Session Title: LGBTQ Cultural Humility Training

Amanda's session will review common terminology, LGBTQ-inclusive language, and best practices for supporting LGBTQ students. At the end of the session, attendees should have an understanding of how to improve knowledge, attitudes, behaviors, and policies to be inclusive and affirming of the LGBTQ community.

Session will be co-presented by Lauren Jacobs.

This session is best suited for any grade level for school administrators.

Ashley McLeroy has worked with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services as a Rehabilitation Engineer and Assistive Technology Specialist since 2010. In
October 2021 she began coordinating the Accessing Potential Through Assistive Technology project to increase access and knowledge of AT for Alabamians with disabilities.

Session Title: Increasing Independence and Confidence with Assistive Technology

Is Assistive technology the missing piece to promote engagement and success in the classroom for your students with disabilities? Introduce AT and watch their confidence grow as they develop independence and skills that allow them a more equitable learning experience with peers. But how can we help you implement AT for students with various limitations? First, let's increase your knowledge through examples of technology that can be used by students to enhance their abilities. Then, let's discuss how APTAT can partner with you to ensure you have continued support in your efforts to help students achieve their maximum potential.

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Dr. Deborah Grant has been part of the counseling profession in Alabama for the past 28 years. She has been on the ALCA Executive Council since 2001. Dr. Grant has served as President of the Alabama Career Development Association (two terms) as well as the Alabama School Counselor Association. She has served as the ALCA Secretary, ALCA Journal Editor, Co-Chair of the Professional Standards Committee and has been the ALCA NBCC Coordinator for the past 7 years. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor, Certified School Counselor, and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor, and has spent several years as a counselor educator within the state. She spent 15 years as a school counselor at Hoover High School and now is full-time faculty for UWA and has a private practice, Rise Counseling and Wellness, LLC, which focuses on adolescents with mental health issues.

Session Title: Meeting the Needs of Adolescents with Severe Mental Health Issues within the Schools

Deborah's session will focus on suggestions for providing a safe and accepting educational environment for students with active mental health issues in the school setting. She will share suggestions for meeting these students "where they are" and making classrooms and the school environment more accepting of their unique mental health needs.

This session is best suited for any grade level and the target audience is Counselors and Social Workers.

Annessa Jenkins has been in education for 21 years (15 years as an ELA classroom teacher, 6 years as a Library Media Specialist, and 4 years as a Peer Helpers Coordinator). She is happily married and has 3 precious fur babies. She is passionate about education and seeing her students thrive in life. She enjoys reading, writing, organizing, and spending time with family and friends.

Session Title: We've Got Class - Inheriting and Developing a Program

Are you a new coordinator but are overwhelmed and just need a starting point? Are you a seasoned coordinator but need to revamp your program? This session will cover the process of growing your Peer Helpers Program, shifting from a club to a class, and ways to make the process easier on new and/or even seasoned coordinators. It includes additional resources and a pre-made curriculum. Let's get started and make a plan that best suits your school!

This session is best suited for any grade level or target audience.

Libba serves many rural students through University Charter School in Livingston, Alabama. In the past 14 years of her educational career, she has served in many different roles. From classroom teacher to interventionist, to coordinator and specialist, the job titles may shift but her focus remains strong: pouring love and support into as many students as possible.

Session Title: Successful Program Implementation in a Rural School

This break-out session will discuss unique challenges rural students may face and successful strategies rural schools can implement to address these challenges and support students.

This session is best suited for Elementary/Intermediate grade levels and any target audience.

Dr. Leslie M. Faulkner began her secondary career working for Ocean Bay as a contractor for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Using her extensive nursing and medical background, she coordinates, educates, and organizes outreach activities within the community as the Diversion Outreach Specialist and Subject Matter Expert II for the New Orleans Field Division.
She has spent the majority of her professional career working in nursing for the past 39 years. In addition to a PhD (Doctor of Philosophy in Administration and Education) and a DNP (Doctor of Nursing Practice), Dr. Faulkner is a Family Nurse Practitioner. Emergency/Trauma nursing and mental health nursing are her areas of expertise. Throughout her career, she has taught in graduate and undergraduate nursing programs and worked in various settings (ER, Trauma, Medical-Surgical, Geriatrics, Pediatrics, and Psychiatry).
Besides being a member of several professional nursing organizations, Dr. Faulkner is an accomplished photographer/graphic artist and an irreverent short story writer.

Session Title: Trending Drug Issues: Fentanyl and More

There will be additional drug information provided during the session.

Lily Moric is the Communications & Campaigns Specialist with the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE). Her interest in combatting sexual exploitation issues began in university, when she discovered the vast body of research on pornography's harmful effects on individuals and society. She proceeded to dedicate herself to raising public awareness of these harms. In addition to working towards this goal through her role at NCOSE, Lily also presents regularly in high schools on the harms of pornography, and has run a podcast, webinars, discussion groups, and awareness campaigns on university campuses.

Session Title: When Worlds Collide: The Toxic Combination of Technology and Pornography and Its Impact on Youth

This presentation describes how the pornography-soaked Internet has created a pornified backdrop against which young people must navigate culture and engage their peers today. The first half of the presentation examines recent research on the public health harms of pornography associated with pornography exposure, while the second half demonstrates how pornography exposure intersects with harmful sexual behaviors among youth occurring on social media such as image-based sexual extortion and self-production and distribution of sexually exploitative images. 

Nicole Persinger, occupational therapist, mother of 4 teens, and co-founder of One More Moment, a parent-led non profit organization which aims to empower and support parents during times of crisis.

Join Nicole as she recounts the details of her eldest daughter's struggles with anxiety, depression, suicidality and reckless behavior, detailing the hopelessness and isolation that she experienced as a parent desperate to find answers and support for herself and her family. Nicole will share her personal journey of finding purpose through the pain, beginning with leading a weekly parent support group, which, in only a year's time, has morphed into a parent-led empowerment movement offering parent support, workshops, training and more. Come and discover how Nicole turned her powerlessness and angst into finding solutions and helping others, proving that one person can indeed make a difference in the lives of others.

Session Title: One More Moment: Empowering Parents of Teens in Crisis

Join Nicole as she recounts the details of her eldest daughter's struggles with anxiety, depression, suicidality and reckless behavior, detailing the hopelessness and isolation that she experienced as a parent desperate to find answers and support for herself and her family. Nicole will share her personal journey of finding purpose through the pain, beginning with leading a weekly parent support group, which, in only a year's time, has morphed into a parent-led empowerment movement offering parent support, workshops, training and more. Come and discover how Nicole turned her powerlessness and angst into finding solutions and helping others, proving that one person can indeed make a difference in the lives of others.

Katie graduated from Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia and earned a master’s degree in community agency counseling from Montevallo University in Montevallo, Alabama.

She has been at ACED for almost 10 years and has worked with preteen and teenage girls for more than 20 years in various ways. She was an English teacher, coached field hockey and lacrosse, a long time summer-camp counselor, working in the community programs Girls’ Inc and Girls On the Run, as well as the director of youth programs on a cruise ship.

Katie works diligently to coordinate all adolescent programming and services for ACED’s adolescent clients. She works alongside parents, families and the extended community of all adolescent clients at ACED. She works directly with the client’s school system providing education and outreach to ensure each client’s academic needs are carefully coordinated and met. She is currently completing her advanced Family Based Therapy (FBT) Training, and proud to soon be among the first Southeastern Certified FBT therapists.

She is an avid hiker and spent 10 days this summer hiking the Swiss and Italian Alps. She loves her cat Scout. She is an Education for Ministry, EFM, mentor and served to the Bishop’s standing committee

Session Title: When Eating Disorders Enter the Classroom

Provides a brief introduction to the types of Eating Disorders may encounter in the school Educates educators on ways to support students with eating disorders. Additionally, edcuaters will know signs and symptoms of eating disorders as well how to navigate getting a student help if there is a problem.

Dannette Bivins owns and operates a private practice in Birmingham, where she provides therapy to individuals, couples, and families. Dannette is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. Dannette received her Master’s degree in Couples and Family Counseling from the University of Montevallo. She has worked in a variety of treatment settings, including outpatient settings, day treatment, juvenile detention, residential programs, jails, and hospitals. Dannette specializes in working with adolescents and seeks to aid them in implementing changes to improve their life paths. She is a Juvenile Sexual Offending Certified Counselor and is certified as a Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Certified Therapist. Dannette enjoys helping clients improve their lives through learning and implementing healthier habits behaviorally, mentally, emotionally, relationally, and spiritually.

Session Title: Childhood and Adolescent Addictions: Types, Warnings, Impacts, and Needs

In addition to substance abuse addictions, our youth are now experiencing addictions to various outlets- such as video games, the internet, and pornography. In this session, attendees will learn about these types of addictions and the warning signs associated with each. Additionally, attendees will learn how these addictions impact the developing brain and ways to meet the needs associated with recovery.