M ak ing A Dif fMaking erence A Difference positive discipline techniques to reinforce good behavior rather than punitive techniques to punish bad; offering ?comfort zones? to students ? safe spaces where children can retreat to when overwhelmed or upset ? which can be as simple as a beanbag chair in a quiet corner; maintaining neat and organized classrooms and using predictable classroom routines with advance warning to students of any changes; providing unconditional positive regard and maintaining high expectations; and checking all assumptions and reactive tendencies about poor behavior at the door, observing behavior instead, trying to decipher possible triggers for maladaptive tendencies to avoid in the future while asking those
questions, ?what happened to this child?and ?how can I help.? Since t he ACEs st udy and continued advancements in neuroscience and our understanding about impact of trauma on learning, educators and policymakers are beginning to take notice. One of the first schools to adopt the trauma-informed approach, Lincoln High School, an alternative school in Walla Walla, Washington and the focus of a recent documentary Paper Tigers, has made outstanding progress with students, including an 85% reduction in suspension rates. Locally in Los Angeles, School Mental Health (SMH) professionals of the Los Angeles
W elc om e N ew B oar d M em b er s Roy Firest one is a 20-year advertising technology executive and a named inventor on a US Patent for Viacom. He adopted two boys through Extraordinary Families and is passionate about maintaining the high level of services achieved by the dedicated staff. As a single gay dad, he advocates for the adoption rights of all qualified families. Roy is also an active film composer and organist.
Ext raordinar yFamilies | Sum m er 20 16
Lisa Jordan, President of Human Solutions LLC, has been providing workforce development and disability-related services for 20+ years. A former DCFS Social Worker and fostered adoptee, Lisa brings a unique perspective to the Board. She currently serves as the President of the National Employment Network Association, and as a Committee Member of the Orange County Department of Education; Lisa also proudly served in the US Navy.
Shauna Shal om is a Vice President, Relationship Manager with Boston Private Bank. She joins the Board with over 14 years' experience in client management, and also serves as a board member for the Women?s Connection Committee and previously served on the Santa Monica Breakfast Club and YMCA boards. Her passion lies is making a difference and aims to do this in every aspect of her life. 11