Connecting After the Power of Engagement Summit 2021

The Power of Engagement Summit 2021 was a huge success, thanks to our collaborative community. We learned from impactful keynote speakers and experienced practitioners in 42 interactive sessions. Each of the breakout leaders offered practical implementation strategies based on real-life success and situations. Key themes at this #POESummit included trauma-informed SEL, relationship-building during distance learning, and practicing culturally responsive teaching.
This is what people are saying about #POESummit…
“I can’t begin to tell you how enlightened I was by the outstanding Power of Engagement Summit. The presenters were able to share information from first-hand experience. They spoke with enthusiasm, assuredness. They shared numerous examples as needed and where other resources can be found.”
Start Watching Power of Engagement Recordings on YouTube
If you missed any of the presentations and sessions or want to experience the highlights again, start viewing the recordings now at no cost on YouTube! We are curating a growing playlist with Harmony SEL. All videos are available with closed captioning.
Power of Engagement Keynote Presentations
Check out these presentations from leaders in SEL-informed Education:
The Neuroscience of Student Engagement
Does having an emotional connection with courses, units and materials make a difference for students? In conversation with Dr. Jodl, Dr. Immordino-Yang shares her research on the neuropsychology of social and emotional feelings and their connections to memory and cultural learning.
Lifting the Voices of Students and Teachers: Administrators Are Listening
Mary Gilbert, an administrator in Tennessee, talks with her students and teacher Jennifer Bean about their experience during the pandemic and ways that they engage with each other, using Harmony as a high-leverage tool to support student and adult voice.
David Adams
Sr. Director of Strategy, The Urban Assembly
Board of Directors, CASEL
Using SEL Skills to Pursue the Common Good
In this keynote presentation, David Adams presents the role social and emotional skills play in building and maintaining community and how schools can create developmentally relevant experiences to ensure that graduates pursue a more perfect union.
Must-Watch Breakout Sessions
We are adding new videos from the Power of Engagement every week — complete with closed captioning. Don’t miss these breakout session highlights and enrich your learning with recommended Harmony and Inspire connections in the Online Learning Portal:
Creating a Systemic Approach to SEL Using Harmony
Kristen Rulison, Eileen Nieves, and Aleida Trinidad demonstrate how to create a common language around SEL, share ideas to strengthen classroom climate, and build a sense of community. Connect this session with Harmony Everyday Practices and sign up for implementation training.

Unpacking Trauma to Promote Purpose
Arlinda Davis invites participants to explore problem-solving and identify barriers in the SEL community for children experiencing trauma or SEL-related issues during the COVID-19 pandemic. Connect this session with the Inspire module “Supporting Trauma-Exposed Students.”
Implementing Peace and Building Empathy
Sarah Campbell demonstrates how implementing peace education practices can transform school culture, foster resiliency, and build a sense of community. Connect this session with the Inspire module “Teaching Empathy.”

Using Technology to Broaden Worldviews
Dr. Melissa Collins and Michael Dunlea demonstrate how to maximize the Harmony program to achieve diverse learning experiences that build empathy and understanding. Connect this session with Harmony Unit 1: Diversity & Inclusion and the Inspire module “Working Against Racial Bias.”
We hope you gain fresh perspectives and energize your SEL implementation as we look forward to new challenges and opportunities in education. Stay connected with us by emailing inspire@inspiresel.org and follow us on social media.