Our society and our schools are challenged by the realities of a growing mental health crisis. This is increasingly evidenced in our youth. How does DEI integrate with the problem and what policies do you as a school board member need to support or avoid in the best interest of your students? This session will introduce you to information that can help you sort through the issues with greater clarity.

First, you’ll hear from Brian M. Kelley, Ph.D., a full-time professor and director of the Master of Science program for the School of Behavioral Sciences at Liberty University. Dr. Kelley is an award-winning educator, best teaching award, scholar of the year award at two different universities, researcher of the year from different medical societies, and a widely published scientist and public health expert. Dr. Kelley has worked in academia for over two decades as well as serving a variety of not-for-profit organizations and medical centers as a consultant to help create innovation to support basic and applied biomedical science, technology, and pedagogy in education, prevention research on substance abuse, STD/HIV-AIDS, and mental illness, and workforce development in the areas of technology, healthcare, and rural efforts across the country. Dr. Kelley leverages the culmination of these experiences for an authentic and effective approach to education and community impact.

Next, you’ll hear from Brad Huddleston, an internationally respected speaker, consultant, teacher, and author on important issues such as technology and culture. He has worked with universities, schools, churches, and law enforcement. He has spoken to hundreds of thousands worldwide on the advantages of well-used technology tools and the dangers of the growing trend toward technology addiction. Brad has an ongoing collaboration with the Bureau of Market Research (BMR)—an independent company—and its Consumer Neuroscience Division at the University of South Africa. Brad has a degree in Computer Science and a Diploma in Biblical Studies. He is a frequent guest on radio and television and the author of Digital Rehab: Learning to Live Again in the Real World., Digital Cocaine: A Journey Toward iBalance, and The Dark Side of Technology: Restoring Balance in the Digital Age. Brad also hosts the international radio show Brad Huddleston’s Techwise. Brad and his wife, Beth, live in the beautiful Shenandoah Valley of Virginia.

The final lesson will be presented by Dr. Shannae Anderson, Ph.D., a clinical psychologist in Virginia and California. She has been practicing for over 30 years, specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, eating disorders, self-harm, and personality disorders. She is the clinical director for Monarch Recovery and Kokua Wellness treatment programs in southern California, an adjunct professor at Liberty University, and the director of psychology and co-director of ethics and advocacy for the American Association of Christian Counselors.

In this course, you’ll receive 3 main lessons, 1 bonus lesson, a certificate of completion, and a host of recourses to help you as you endeavor to tackle the youth mental health crisis in your community.

Our main goal is to empower you with the tools and resources you need to make an impact in lives of the children you’re responsible for. We offer online training, in-person summits, and informed articles, videos, and podcasts for parents, school board members, and school staff. On our website, you will also find an interactive map with the resources you need to find your state’s education laws, leaders, school choice options, and resource organizations.