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Kara Nystrom Boulahanis is a licensed school psychologist, administrator and special educator whose work focuses on supporting the well-being of all students, but particularly those marginalized by our current systems. Dr. Boulahanis is currently the Senior Policy Strategist with the Oregon Department of Education’s Office of Enhancing Student Opportunities. Dr. Boulahanis received their doctorate in School Psychology from the University of Oregon and a Masters in Teaching, Special Education from National Louis University. Prior to getting their doctorate, Dr.

Over the past several years, Dr. Sheldon Berman has taken a deep dive into supporting and documenting the implementation of social-emotional learning in seven rural, suburban, and urban districts in order to draw lessons and insights that can help other districts. Those lessons have been published in the soon to be released book, Implementing Social-Emotional Learning: Insights from Districts’ Successes and Stepbacks.

In this session, Special Education Directors will hear from a panel of experts on the best next steps following a full school year.  District leaders will also have time with like-sized districts to collaborate, brainstorm, and solve problems.

PART ONE: THE 6 CONDITIONS

School discipline policies aim to create safe and equitable learning environments for all students. However, when these policies are not implemented effectively, they can lead to significant negative consequences, including increased dropout rates and decreased student achievement.

Oregon students deserve to access their education free from discrimination and harassment. This session will focus on understanding and implementing Oregon and Federal civil rights laws.

Join us for a collaborative and interactive session on the latest updates regarding the state's special education legislation, including abbreviated school day programs, restraint and seclusion, informal removals, special education records and more. ODE will provide an overview of the new legislation, including how it impacts special education services and programs. Attendees will gain a better understanding of the legal requirements and how to comply with them, as well as tips and strategies for implementing the new legislation effectively.