This project/organization was established in 2017 to ensure all educators can provide the best learning environment for all students, especially those affected by trauma. One out of four children have experienced trauma, so providing them with opportunities to achieve their academic goals, giving them the tools to become resilient and successful in and out of the classroom, along with connecting and establishing strong relationships with families, are all critical pieces for children to overcome and move on from life's adversities. School is one facet of a child's life, so having educators introduce and educate students on the necessary coping skills to manage strong emotions and feelings will guide them to a healthy lifestyle which incorporates mindfulness practices. Toolkits, mindfulness in the classroom, and adapting specials classes can assist any child with their education. Be a lifeboat for a child. Sinking isn't an option. ALL students deserve to be the best versions of themselves.

LIFEBOATS FOR YOUNG MINDS

WHO IS NINA AND WHY DOES SHE CARE?

BELOW ARE HER CREDENTIALS AND HISTORY

Home: Service

WHO

Nina is a mom, wife, daughter, aunt, colleague, client, patient, educator, graduate, coach, friend, cousin, niece, counselor, advocate, and the list could go on. She is 41 years old and has learned so much about life as the years have gone on. She devotes a lot of her time to and is passionate about changing the stigma of mental health and helping people change the lens in which they view others.

WHAT

Nina believes in trauma-informed practices and brain-based learning for all. She is striving to make ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) a universal screening tool for public health systems. After much research and reading, she has learned past adversities can negatively impact someone's health in the future and being proactive and mindful of these events can prevent disease, cancer and even death.

WHERE

Nina currently lives in Southeastern Wisconsin and has dedicated her efforts to mental health and children's well-being. She believes in advocating to provide more resources for families and children in many counties of Wisconsin. She continues to work toward providing tools for mindfulness in and out of the educational setting.

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OUR MISSION

Experiences

Mental Health Training/ Trauma-Sensitive Schools and Classrooms

Wellness and Childhood Adversity Book Studies (Lost At School, The Deepest Well, MindUp, The Boy Who was Raised as a Dog, What Happened To You?)

Restorative Justices Practices in the Classroom

Taught 4K for three years, 1st Grade for six years, and 2nd grade for one year

Educated in DPI Mental Health Modules

Previously an Instructional Coach (2 years) for Grades K-5 in Kenosha, WI

Currently our Social Emotional Intervention Specialist

EASD Resiliency Coalition Committee Member - 2020-Present

Certifications

Bachelor's in Early Childhood Education - Cum Laude- Birth to Age 8 from UW-Milwaukee

Master's Educational Leadership - 2016

Master's Curriculum & Instruction - 2016

Mentor Training for New Teachers - 2017

Certified in Wellness Circles - 2019

The Science of Well-Being - 2020-2023

Student Teacher Certified - 2018

NME Trainer - Expected 2023

Breathe For Change SEL and Yoga Certified Instructor - Expected 2023

EASD Resiliency Coalition Committee Member - 2020-Present

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Publications

Journals/Websites/Fundraisers

Website Blog

Professional Development Workshops

Brochures/Banners/Business Cards

Grants For Education

Professional Development for Educators in the Areas of Mental Health, Trauma-Sensitive Practices, and Brain-Based Learning

OUR MISSION IS to connect families, educators and their communities, in the areas of mindfulness and mental health, in order to promote and educate ALL people on childhood adversities and the harmful effects they can have later on in life. trauma does not define you, it's what happens inside of you because of what happened to you.