Safe & Healthy Schools 2026
February 12, University of Richmond
This in-person event will include an engaging Keynote address with Dr. Matthew Zareski; a Deep Dive Workshop; and small group collaborative conversations on the picturesque campus of the University of Richmond. The presentations and concurrent sessions will fit into these Learning Tracks: Health & Physical Wellness; Social, Emotional & Academic Support; and Safety & Security. Safe & Healthy Schools is designed to provide relevant, research-based professional learning for School Counselors, Nurses, Teachers, Learning Support Professionals, Athletic Directors, and School Safety & Security Professionals.
You can expect these learning outcomes:
- Build your understanding of best practices for student and faculty success and wellness.
- Strengthen your skills for decisive action in school crisis scenarios.
- Engage in collaborative conversations to support students in all facets of their school experience.
Click here to download the program.
FEATURING
Matthew “Dr. Matt” Zakreski
Co-Founder, The Neurodiversity Collective
Matthew Zakreski is a high energy, creative clinical psychologist and professional speaker who utilizes an eclectic approach to meet the specific needs of his neurodivergent clients. He is proud to serve the Gifted community as a consultant, a professor, an author, and a researcher. He has spoken hundreds of times all over the world about supporting neurodivergent kids. A member of Supporting the Emotional Needs of the Gifted (SENG), the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), and the New Jersey Association for Gifted Children (NJAGC), Zakreski graduated from Widener University in 2016. He is the author of the Neurodiversity Playbook: How Neurodivergent People Can Crack the Code of Living in a Neurotypical World.
OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN
Conference Keynote: Riding Out the Storm: Managing Emotional Intensity in Neurodivergent Students with Dr. Matt Zakreski
Emotions are the cause of many disruptive and problematic behaviors that gifted and twice-exceptional children face. Neurodivergent learners are marked by structural and functional brain differences that may manifest in increased emotionality. Dr. Zakreski will walk participants through trouble areas and give concrete strategies on how to manage those feelings and behaviors.
REGISTRATION:
| Who? | Fee: |
| VAIS Members | $295 |
| Non – VAIS Members | $580 |
REGISTRATION/REFUND DEADLINE: February 3
VAIS has secured a room block at The Westin Richmond. Use the link below to book your hotel before January 21, 2026
Book your group rate for VAIS Training Room Block
Please email Darcie TeVault with any questions.
EVENT SPONSORS:
Click HERE to learn more about VAIS sponsorship opportunities.
