Resilience: The Biology of Stress & the Science of Hope is a one-hour documentary that chronicles the birth of a new movement among pediatricians, therapists, educators and communities, who are using cutting-edge brain science to disrupt cycles of violence, addiction and disease. (Trailer)
In June, the West Shore School District offered a professional development opportunity that included a screening of the documentary Resilience and activities focused on the following topics which staff have been discussing over the past few years:
- Safe Crisis Management
- Student Assistance Programs
- Suicide Prevention
- Substance Abuse
- Mental Health Issues
- Family Dysfunction
- Growth Mindset
- Resilience and Grit
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is a relatively new term. ACEs have been linked to risky health behaviors, low life potential, chronic health conditions, and early death. (Source) As the number of ACEs increases, so does the risk for these outcomes. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), states that the wide-ranging health and social consequences of ACEs underscore the importance of preventing them before they happen. The CDC promotes lifelong health and well-being achieved through safe, stable, nurturing relationships and environments for all children.
Following the June showing of the film, staff began to talk about the effects of divorce, abuse and neglect on students, but more impactful, they also began conversations about the use of cutting edge science to help the next generation break cycles of adversity and disease. Seeing the influence the film had on our staff, the West Shore School District, in conjunction with the West Shore Education Association (WSEA), took the necessary steps to present this documentary and information about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) to our school community.
Please plan to join us for one of these showings.
2017 DATES
Thursday, October 12, 6-8 p.m.
Hillside Elementary School
Monday, October 16, 6-8 p.m.
Red Mill Elementary School
Thursday, November 2
Free spaghetti dinner - 4:30-5:30 p.m.
Movie and discussion - 5:30-7 p.m.
Newberry Elementary School
Tuesday, November 28, 6-8 p.m.
Cedar Cliff High School
Thursday, November 30, 6-8 p.m.
Fairview Elementary School
Tuesday, December 5, 7-9 p.m.
Red Land High School
2018 DATES
Thursday, March 1, 6-8 p.m.
Allen Middle School
Monday, March 12, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Crossroads Middle School
Thursday, April 5, 6-8 p.m.
Fishing Creek Elementary School
Thursday, May 10, 6-7 p.m.
Hillside Elementary School
Tuesday, May 22, 6-8 p.m.
Highland Elementary School
Due to space limitations, please register by May 11, click here to do so
These free events are open to anyone in the community and all are encouraged to attend.
Free childcare will be provided. Due to the sensitive content discussed in the film, we recommend children under 13 do not attend the showings.
Resources
See the related file below to download a copy of the District's Resilience brochure which includes a definition of resilience and resources for families. It also provides ideas on how to help children develop resiliency.