Sydney Jensen

This keynote is an extension of Sydney's popular TED talk focused on supporting the emotional well-being of teachers who work with students experiencing trauma. Teachers give their hearts, minds, and spirits in support of their students, and that comes with stress, secondary trauma, and compassion fatigue. Teachers cannot pour from an empty cup, and as we acknowledge this challenge facing the teaching profession, we can do more to counter it with self-care, resilience, and connection. Takeaways from this session include: - Reflection questions to help teachers and school leaders ground themselves in wellness - Strategies for building a connected and intentional school community - Resources to support the emotional well-being of school staff

Sydney teaches a graduate-level course at Doane University focused on teaching students experiencing trauma. Additionally, she collaborated to create a similar course offering for Walden University. In this presentation (a keynote or a workshop, depending on your needs), Sydney will share the pillars of trauma-informed teaching along with actionable strategies to make every classroom a safe space for students to learn and teachers to thrive. Takeaways from this session include: - A baseline understanding of the anatomical response to trauma - Trauma-informed strategies for responding to behaviors - Instructional practices that create inclusive and safe environments for all students to take academic risks

This keynote is specifically tailored for a new teacher audience. In this passionate speech, Sydney shares her journey as a struggling student and the impact teachers made on her life. She shares her story of overcoming a disastrous first year in the classroom and sends a message of inspiration and hope to the newest generation of educators. Takeaways from this session include: - A roadmap for building a professional learning community - Advice for making the first year full of growth - Reinvigorated passion for entering the teaching profession