This session will feature how one Kansas MTSS middle school provided assertiveness instruction schoolwide, including practice with feedback in numerous classrooms. Specific instructional practices and activities from various classrooms will be shared, as well as important take-aways for quality implementation. After embedding assertiveness instruction within course content for 3-6 weeks, Kansas teachers have seen student increases in classroom engagement, more productive collaborative learning, balanced participation of all students in class discussions, higher levels of empathy, ownership over academics, increased advocacy, and the ability to speak up in difficult situations. Students have been able to generalize this learning to improve relationships with peers, teachers, and family members. During this session, we will share free resources, discuss implementation challenges, and give away a book or two. Together, we can develop socially and emotionally engaged, career-equipped, lifelong learners.
