2026 Strengthening Connections: Building a Supportive Environment from Leadership Vision to Classroom Reality

The Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services is pleased to offer "Strengthening Connections: Building a Supportive Environment from Leadership Vision to Classroom Reality" on February 10-11, 2026, at the Virginia Crossings in Glen Allen, Virginia. Data shows that school leadership can have a profound impact on the overall school climate and staff morale. Positive leadership and trauma-informed strategies are key elements of safe, healthy, and high-achieving schools, as well as staff retention. The purpose of this conference is to support schools and their partners in efforts to provide a positive and safe school climate where students and staff feel supported and are socially, emotionally, and physically safe to learn and work. Sessions will focus on some of the most necessary components for improving school climate through leadership, prevention, and early intervention. Over the course of a day and a half, participants learn about climate, resilience, mental health, and other important topics, and have the chance to share information and network with colleagues from around the state. Attendees will explore these topics through a series of engaging keynotes and an opportunity for hands-on access to local, and often free, resources. The goal is for participants to return to their communities inspired and better equipped to engage in practices that improve the learning climate.