ISBE School Wellness Conference: Full Schedule

arrow_back View All Dates

9:45am CDT

Beyond the Circle: Restorative Practices in Schools

Wednesday May 6, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am CDT

Join us for an overview of how restorative practices fosters a sense of belonging and supports student well-being in our schools. You will learn about the continuum of restorative practices and the importance of employing these practices at the classroom and schoolwide level. The presentation will also touch on practical tools and strategies to create a positive school culture where every student feels valued and connected.

Speakers

Ms. Nikki Golden

Special Education Teacher, Community High School District 99

Ms. Nikki Golden is a dedicated Special Education Teacher with an expansive professional range, having served students in both early elementary and high school settings. Beyond the classroom, she serves as a prominent leader on the Equity and Inclusion Council, where she helps shape policies that... Read More →

Kathleen Meeks

Social Studies Teacher, Community High School District 99

Ms. Kathleen Meeks is a veteran social studies teacher and community organizer dedicated to moving beyond traditional reform toward deep systemic repair and renewal. Drawing on her 15 years of experience in public schools and two Master’s degrees in Culture and Society and Teaching English Learn... Read More →

Dr. Karen Strunk Taylor

Associate Principal for Students and Staff, Community High School District 99

Dr. Karen Strunk Taylor brings over 30 years of experience in public education to her work. Her diverse career spans roles as a special education teacher, department chair, and Dean of Students. She currently serves as Associate Principal for Students and Staff, where she developed a deep expertise in n... Read More →

Wednesday May 6, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am CDT
Redbird E

Restorative Practices

11:00am CDT

Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management in Your School

Wednesday May 6, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT

Redbird E

The speaker(s) will discuss their efforts to bring BTAM to a traditional law enforcement agency. The program will also cover establishing BTAM teams in your school, where to start and how to get buy in from your staff and community.

Speakers

Keith Cox

Threat Mitigation Unit/ BTAM Bureau Chief, Illinois State Police

Lieutenant Keith Cox has been a member of the Illinois State Police (ISP) since 2001. He is currently assigned to the Division of Criminal Investigation, Threat Mitigation Unit, as the Behavioral Threat Assessment and Management Team (BTAM) Bureau Chief. He previously served in the... Read More →

Wednesday May 6, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm CDT
Redbird E

Behavior/School Safety