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Dr. Edmond Gurdo is an educator that is passionate about students feeling connected and having a sense of belonging. He is currently the Director of Equity and Student Services for the Appoquinimink School District in Middletown, DE but has previously served in the roles of Lead Clinician, School Counselor, Assistant Principal, and Principal. He was awarded the State of Delaware’s School Counselor for his work with students and families.
Edmond has degrees in Biology, Psychology, Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, School Leadership, and Counseling Psychology. He has played an active role in supporting and promoting restorative practices and equity within his current role at Appoquinimink School District.
SESSIONS
Integrating Mental Health and School Safety for Holistic Student Well-being
In today's rapidly changing educational landscape, the need for a holistic approach to student well-being has never been more paramount. The integration of mental health and school safety is a crucial endeavor to ensure that students thrive both academically and emotionally. This conference proposal aims to highlight the journey undertaken by the Appoquinimink School District in providing a comprehensive range of proactive preventative services that prioritize mental health awareness, restorative discipline practices and emphasis on teaching in response to student behavior, de-escalation techniques, threat assessment processes, and crisis prevention and response strategies.Appoquinimink School District's Journey: The Appoquinimink School District has embarked on a journey to enhance student well-being through the integration of mental health and school safety initiatives. Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between these two facets, the district has committed itself to fostering an environment where students feel safe, supported, and empowered.
Mental Health Training and De-escalation: One milestone in Appoquinimink's journey is their work in training constables and staff members in mental health awareness and de-escalation techniques. Through the implementation of a comprehensive program that emphasizes proactive strategies for handling potential crises, the district has equipped its personnel with the skills to effectively respond to students' emotional needs. This approach not only ensures physical safety but also addresses the emotional well-being of students, thereby creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment.
Comprehensive Threat and Risk Assessment: Central to the district's commitment to safety is their comprehensive threat and risk assessment process. Appoquinimink School District has developed a system that identifies and evaluates potential threats to the school community. By implementing proactive measures to prevent and mitigate these threats, the district is effectively safeguarding the well-being of its students, staff, and the larger community.
Safety and Wellness Suite Development: Appoquinimink's impact extends beyond its district. The school district has been an active participant in developing a state-wide Safety and Wellness Suite and taken a leadership role in its roll out within the state. This initiative reflects the dedication to collaborative efforts aimed at enhancing safety and well-being across educational institutions. The suite serves as a valuable resource hub, consolidating best practices, resources, and tools for addressing both basic needs, mental health concerns, and safety challenges.
PREPaRE Curriculum for Crisis Prevention and Response: Furthermore, the district has implemented the PREPaRE curriculum, a comprehensive program that equips school personnel with evidence-based strategies for crisis prevention and response. This curriculum empowers educators and administrators to effectively manage various crisis situations, promoting a culture of preparedness and resilience throughout the school community.