Name: Leaders in Bloom: Cultivating Change by Nourishing the Roots
Start: 2026-06-10T13:35:00-0400
End: 2026-06-10T14:35:00-0400

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Leaders in Bloom: Cultivating Change by Nourishing the Roots

LIMITED

Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:35pm - 2:35pm EDT

Sycamore Room 109

Limited Capacity seats available

This engaging breakout session equips educators with innovative, hands-on strategies to strengthen students’ social-emotional skills through both nature-based learning and immersive technology. Participants will explore the design and implementation of a gardening-focused SEL group, where students build self-regulation, responsibility, patience, and teamwork while nurturing living plants. Practical tips, lesson ideas, and structures for integrating gardening into the school day will be shared, making it accessible for a variety of school settings.
In addition, this session introduces a powerful professional development approach using Virtual Reality to build empathy and deepen staff understanding of student experiences. Attendees will learn how VR scenarios can simulate real-life challenges—such as trauma, stress, and unmet basic needs—helping educators reflect on their responses and strengthen relationships with students.
By combining experiential learning with cutting-edge technology, this session provides tools to foster connection, compassion, and emotional growth in both students and staff. Participants will leave with ready-to-use ideas, increased awareness, and a renewed sense of purpose in supporting the whole child.

Speakers

Brittany Perry

School Social Worker, Ashe County Schools

Brittany Perry is a school social worker with 13 years of experience, including 8 years serving students in middle school, high school, and early college settings. She is passionate about helping young people reconnect with who they are, build resilience, and learn life skills that... Read More →

Autumn Chamberlain

School Social Worker, Ashe County Schools

Autumn Chamberlain brings over 12 years of experience in social work, serving children, families, and vulnerable individuals through roles as a school social worker, with Child Protective Services, Adult Protective Services, and in an Assisted Living environment. Guided by her Christian... Read More →

Wednesday June 10, 2026 1:35pm - 2:35pm EDT
Sycamore Room 109

Breakout Sessions, AIM Grant Winner

Company Ashe County Schools
Audience Educators, Administrators / School Leaders, Counselors / Student Support, Community / Industry Partners
Subject Student-Centered Teaching & Learning, Experimental Learning, School Climate & Culture, AIM Grant Recipient
global Y

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Academic Innovation Conference 2026

Brittany Perry

Autumn Chamberlain

Attendees (5)

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Success you have shared X tickets.

Academic Innovation Conference 2026

Brittany Perry

Autumn Chamberlain

Attendees (5)

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