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Sessions – 2017 Health Summit

You will come to Waltham knowing what you do at your school and PTA. But you will leave Waltham thinking healthier about the possibilities for your school and PTA, as well as your own leadership abilities.

Workshops will deliver proven ways to:

• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders
• Engage and empower parents to support student success and overall well-being
• Advocate for the needs of every child in your school, community or state
• Develop partnerships that support growth and mission implementation

Plan Your Workshop Itinerary

Browse the catalog of workshop sessions below to plan your itinerary. All workshops will be open seating.

9:45 – 11:00 a.m. Session A Choice

• Creating Healthy Communities through Diversity and Inclusion: Juan San Miguel 
  Today’s communities are becoming increasingly diverse, affecting the health of our children, families, teachers, and schools. Problems and challenges in our communities stem from barriers deep in our complex personalities. This interactive workshop explores one barrier, our biases, how they shape our assumptions and stereotypes, and eventually how it shapes our schools and communities for better or worse. Taking action through diversity and inclusion will help develop healthy communities.
• Real Life Experiences: Head Injuries and Concussions in Sports Panel: Kathleen Thornton, Michelle Kelly, and Linda Brown 
  This panel presentation aims to teach about real life experiences of schools, athletic trainers, and survivors in dealing with sports-related head injuries. Michelle Kelly from Somerville Public Schools will talk about innovative programming involved student ambassadors to raise awareness about concussion. Kathleen Thornton will discuss her in-depth experience working with parents and students in sports. A speaker from the Brain Injury Association from Massachusetts will speak about recovering and surviving from a concussion. Finally, a speaker from Concussion Legacy Foundation will present an overview of Concussion 101, what everyone needs to know. Linda Brown will moderate the Panel.
• Clean and Green: DIY Cleaners and Best Practices: Alicia McCarthy 
  Cleaning is an essential part of our daily lives, and some chemicals within cleaning products can be associated with human and environmental health issues. Green cleaning practices and products can assist in protecting the health of students, teachers and staff while increasing cost savings and the lifespan of cleaners. This workshop provides participants an interactive opportunity to learn about green cleaning; “Do It Yourself” recipes; and helpful tools that empower participants to play an active role in evaluating cleaners.
• Minding Your Mind :Just Talk about It Suicide Prevention Toolkit: Sheila Gillin, LCSW
  The “Just Talk About It Suicide Prevention Toolkit” is designed to train both adults and youth on how to
  assist adolescents who exhibit signs of mental health disorders including depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation and has been approved by the Best Practices National Registry. The interactive presentation is designed to provide factual knowledge, facilitate discussion, ease communication, and enlighten teachers, parents, and students to the warning signs of mental health issues in adolescents and teens.
•  Gender Identity and Expression: A Personal Perspective: Jeff Perrotti  and Erik Champy
  This workshop will feature students and parents speaking about laws, policies, and best practices for supporting transgender and gender nonconforming students.
• Nutrition Panel: Fueling the Body and Mind to Play Healthy: Shannon Ashcroft, Monique Bellefleur, Erin Wholey and Kate Millett Following the desired habits for nutrition and physical activity is not always easy. A panel of experts on food and nutrition resources, healthy eating, and physical activity for children will discuss strategies to reach a healthy lifestyle for children and families.

11:05 – 12:20 a.m. Session B Choice

• Kids=Active Minds: Using Physical Activity to Boost Student Achievement:  Erikka Moreno,Laura Burati, and Nicole Dibitetto
  The CDC recommends kids should be moving 60 minutes every day, but 4% of schools nationwide provide daily PE. Learn how BOKS can work with you to empower parents, teachers, and other community members to create school-based physical activity opportunities for students. BOKS provides FREE curriculum, training, and support to get kids moving before/after school, in the classroom, and during recess to enhance learning. We practice what we preach, so come prepared to get moving!
• Examining Yoga in Schools: Lindsay Lucarelli 
  Students are stressed more than any other population, with over 50% of teens exhibiting clinical-levels of anxiety and children’s confidence peaks at age 8. Yoga is a proven tool to integrate into today’s high-demand classroom environments that aligns with Massachusetts’ Academic-Social-Emotional learning standards. Yoga-based concepts expand a student’s toolbox to manage the stressors of each day. More so, yoga is proven to enhance a student’s self-confidence, connection to others, and ability to transition. We will experience
  practices in yoga, witness testimonials from school, and explore the integration of yoga in schools.
• Alcohol & Developing Brains: Unique Best Practices in Underage Drinking Prevention: Helen Gaynor 
  Conversations among parents and kids are up, and underage drinking is down; however, our work isn’t over. Learn about Ask, Listen, Learn, Responsibility.org’s free alcohol education program for youth ages 9-12 and their parents and educators. We’ll explore unique ways to integrate science/research-based alcohol education into your class or program. We’ll discuss curriculum standards, resources for parents, underage drinking
  research, and specific best practices. Games, videos, and discussion will be at the helm of this session.
• The Therapeutic Crisis Intervention System for Families, Schools, and/or Developmentally Disabled: Michael R. Baldassarre, Ed.D.
  Now in its fourth decade, Cornell University’s Therapeutic Crisis Intervention (TCI) System is available for any child care organization or family support agency or group.  By applying the principles of TCI, parents,
  teachers, and direct care workers can learn to successfully manage difficult situations with children and young adults. Research based methods for turning times of stress, anxiety, frustration, and anger are instrumental in creating opportunities for relationship building and understanding.
• A Parent’s Guide to Being a Vaccine Advocate: Rebecca Vanucci
  This presentation will outline ways that parents can become vaccine advocates in their community. The
  presentation will include information on the benefits of vaccination, common myths about vaccines, school immunization and exemption data, how to find your local school’s immunization and exemption rates, and effective communication strategies to support vaccines.
• Navigating the Cyber World: Camila Barrera
  This workshop reviews the challenges and dangerous situations that may arise through use of the Internet, social media and smart phones. It is important for parents to be aware of the popular apps, social media sites and programs used by youth online. This workshop explains the issues and possible consequences from cyber bullying, sexting, and revealing identifying information to strangers.

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Host Facility

The Conference Center at Waltham Woods, Waltham, MA is the official facility for “Taking Action!Keeping Children, Schools, Families and Our Communities Healthy”!

The Conference Center at Waltham Woods
860 Winter Street
Waltham, MA 02451

Transportation

Airport

Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
1 Harborside Drive
Boston, MA 02128

Public Transportation

The Alewife Shuttle B runs from the Alewife MBTA Station to the Massachusetts Medical Society Headquarters. To learn more about this service visit: http://128bc.org/alewife-shuttle-route-d/

Driving Directions 

Please note: Some GPS navigation systems will bring you to a different location so please follow the directions below.

From The East (Boston and Logan Airport)	West on the Mass. Pike/I90 past the tollbooth and follow the signs for I-95/128 North (Exit 15). Take 95/128 North for approximately 2 miles to Exit 27B (Wyman Street/Winter Street). At the lights, turn right onto Wyman Street. Remain in the right lane and bear right at the yield sign onto Winter Street. Remain in the right lane. (Continue with “Directions for All” below.)
From The West (Worcester)	East on Mass. Pike/I-90 to Exit 14. Keep left past tollbooth and follow the signs for I-95/128 North. Take 95/128 North for approximately 2 miles to Exit 27B (Wyman Street/ Winter Street). At the lights, turn right onto Wyman Street. Remain in the right lane and bear right at the yield sign onto Winter Street. Remain in the right lane. (Continue with “Directions for All” below.)

Special Requests

If you have a condition which requires accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and you require accommodations at the event, please contact the Massachusetts PTA Health Committee at health@masspta.org to describe the condition and the specific nature of the requested accommodations. Massachusetts PTA will provide accommodations in accordance with law.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

General Questions

Who:
Registration is open to PTA members, non PTA members, health and education stakeholders of all levels.

What: 
Massachusetts Health Summit

When:
November 16, 2017

Where:
The Conference Center at Waltham Woods, 860 Winter Street, Waltham, MA 02451

Why: 
The Summit will have an exceptional audience from across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, including parents, educators, health and wellness experts, community members, elected officials and our trusted partners, convening to discuss and learn action steps to keep our children, families and communities healthy and safe.

What is the schedule for the Summit?

Please note: The Massachusetts PTA summit schedule is tentative and subject to change. View the agenda for up-to-date changes.

What dates should I book my travel to ensure that I won’t miss any of the Summit?

Plan to arrive Wednesday night and you can experience it all! Summit activities start on Thursday, November 16,2017 at 7:30 a.m. and conclude by 2:30 p.m.

What can I expect if I attend this year’s Summit / What are the benefits of attending this year’s Summit?

Massachusetts PTA’s Health Summit has an exceptional line-up of health sessions and keynote speakers this year that will help all:

• Learn to work better with principals, teachers and other community and family engagement leaders,
• Increase student health,
• Promote health and safety initiatives for schools and families, and
• Advocate more effectively by learning about the legislative issues facing our children and schools.

In addition, our summit is an opportunity to meet other PTA members and healthcare leaders to share ideas, make new friends, renew acquaintances, and have fun!

What is the dress code?

Attire is business casual. Feel free to be comfortable in slacks, polo shirts, sweaters, blazers, blouses, and, most importantly, comfortable shoes. We do recommend you dress in layers as temperatures in meeting rooms can vary.

What are some recommendations from previous program attendees?

1. Register early
2. Share hotel rooms
3. Wear comfortable shoes
4. If coming with several people, plan out who attends what workshops, forums, coaching sessions, etc. to get the most information that you can take back to share
5. Don’t be shy… talk to members from other areas to get new ideas and best practices

Will there be daycare offered at Convention?

Massachusetts PTA does not provide daycare services as a part of its Health Summit. P

Exhibit Questions

What can I expect when attending the Expo at this year’s Summit?

You’ll be able to explore exhibits from companies and nonprofit organizations providing products and services for PTAs and schools. Find the latest information and ideas on child and school safety, health and fitness, education, and much more!

How can I find out if a specific company will be exhibiting at the Health Summit?

Stay tuned for a list complete list of 2017 summit exhibitors.

Registration Questions 

How can I register for this year’s summit?

There are three ways to register:

1. Online in Advance (by credit card). Go to Register. It is quick, easy, and secure. Online registration will open in June 2017.
2. Mail in Advance (by check, or money order). Complete the registration form (last page of brochure) and mail it, postmarked by November 10, 2016, along with payment to the address listed on the registration form.
3. On-site. Unfortunately because of counts that need to be submitted to the catering staff we are unable to accept on-site registration. You may pay on-site if you have pre-registered. The Registration Table will open at 7:30 am.

Can summit costs be covered by my PTA budget?

Summit registration fees and travel costs are legitimate expenses that can be included in your PTA budget. Many PTAs budget to attend training programs every year. While other organizations charge hundreds of dollars for a summit like ours – we keep registration fees low to allow as many PTA leaders, families and healthcare professionals as possible to attend. This is just one way Massachusetts PTA invests in its members and volunteer leaders. By seeking sponsors and outside funding to defray the costs of the summit, we can keep registration fees as low as $45 per member and as low as $55 per non-member.

What are this year’s registration rates?

	Regular Rate
Member Full	$35 ea
Member Full – Group (3 Members)	$100 for 3
Non-member Full	$45 ea

How do I register multiple attendees at one time?

Go to register your group now!

Group Rate Discounts
Save on registration rates when registering as a group. 2 or more MEMBERS must register at the same time to be considered a group.

I am NOT A MEMBER. Can I still attend the summit? If so, how much will it cost to attend as a nonmember?

Massachusetts PTA welcomes participation in the summit by non-PTA members. If you are not a PTA member, you are entitled only to the Non-Member rates above.

Registration Confirmation Questions

I have registered for this year’s summit. When and how will I receive my confirmation?

A registration confirmation email will be sent to you at the address provided immediately upon completion of your registration. Your confirmation email will include your registration receipt.

Cancellation Policy Questions

What is Massachusetts PTA’s cancellation policy for summit registrations?

Cancellation Policy

If you register in advance and find you cannot attend the summit, you must cancel your registration and request a refund. Requests for refunds must be submitted by the cancellation deadline of November 10, 2016. Refunds will not be processed after November 10th. Please allow 4-6 weeks for the refund to be issued. Please send your cancellation notice via email to Healthsummit@masspta.org

I can no longer attend this year’s convention – Can I transfer my registration to another person?

Massachusetts PTA will allow transfer of a registration to another person with appropriate notification prior to the start of the summit.

Hotel & Travel Questions

Which hotel is the official Summit Hotel for this year’s Summit? What is cost per night and how do I book?

Special summit rates have been secured for attendees at our official summit hotel:

Summit Hotel:

Embassy Suites by Hilton
550 Winter Street, Waltham, MA 02451
Direct: 781-487-4240

kathryn.mjos@hilton.com
bostonwaltham.embassysuites.com

Group Rate: $195* single/double for Wednesday Night

Link for MA PTA room block hotel registration

*The rates listed above do not include the state and local taxes.

Rooms and the special rate may not be available after October 30th , so make your hotel reservations early.

I need to change and/or cancel my hotel reservations – what do I do?

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellations of reservations (must be made directly with the hotel) within 72 hours of arrival date.

 

Special Needs Questions

If I have special needs, who can I contact?

If you have a condition which requires accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act, and you require accommodations at the event, please contact Massachusetts PTA Health Committee at healthsummit@masspta.org to describe the condition and the specific nature of the requested accommodations. Massachusetts PTA will provide accommodations in accordance with law.

 

 

 

 

Dear Prospective Exhibitors and Sponsors,

It is our pleasure to welcome you to the 2nd Annual Massachusetts PTA Health Summit, Taking Action! Keeping Children, Schools, Families and our Communities Healthy! No matter who you are, a member, friend, sponsor, supporter or volunteer, you are guaranteed to find this event, and its topics so enlightening that you will want to not only get involved with, but most importantly, will want to share with others!

The Massachusetts Parent Teacher Association (Mass PTA) is truly excited about  inviting  you  to partner with us on this wonderful summit that will be held on Thursday, November 16, 2017 at the Conference Center at  Waltham Woods, 860 Winter St., Waltham, MA. The summit will be filled with an exceptional  audience  of parents, educators, health and wellness experts, health and civic organizations,  community  members/leaders,  elected officials and our Mass PTA Partners from across the Commonwealth  where they will  gather to discuss,  learn and take  action to keep our  children, families  and communities healthy.

Massachusetts PTA represents hundreds of PTA Local units and members across this Commonwealth. We are dedicated to promoting effective health education programs and services in schools, families and communities in order to offer children, youth and families the skills, tools and abilities they need to make healthy choices.

A large attendance is expected to participate in this summit, including our colleagues from the greater New England PTA States. We know that you can enrich this opportunity as well as learn from it.  Again this year, we will be having participants and guests from National PTA. Your exhibits, presentations, and support are all very valuable to the Massachusetts PTA. We hope you will join us at the Massachusetts PTA 2nd Annual Health Summit, Taking Action! Keeping Children, Schools, Families and our Communities Healthy!

In addition to our Vendors/Exhibitors, we are also welcoming you, your organization and/or your business to Sponsor this conference. This is a tremendous opportunity to demonstrate your encouragement  and  efforts to support the health and well-being of our children, families and communities not only in Massachusetts but also across the greater  New England  States.

Your sponsorship of our 2nd Annual Massachusetts PTA Health Summit, Taking Action!  Keeping Children,  Schools, Families and our Communities Healthy will provide the critical funding needed to sustain our health and wellness programs which will help us continue to promote effective health education programs and services in schools, families and communities in order to offer children, youth and families the skills, tools and abilities they need to make healthy choices. Enclosed please find more information about Massachusetts PTA and our multiple Sponsorship, Exhibitor and Advertising  opportunities that we have available. Please feel free to contact me at 617-851-5382 or healthsummit@masspta.org if you have any further questions. We look forward to continuing or developing a partnership with your organization and welcoming you into the Massachusetts PTA family!

Sincerely,

Jacqueline  M. Coogan

MA PTA Health & Wellness Chair Massachusetts  PTA Board Member

617-851-5382

healthsummit@masspta.org

 

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Agenda – 2017 Health Summit

Join us for “Taking Action! Keeping Children, Schools, Families and Our Communities Healthy!”

November 16, 2017 – to connect with some the states most influential healthcare leaders, as well as other parents and educators in Waltham, MA.  The 2017 Health Summit Brochure and full program is now ready for you to view, print and *register.”

View the 2017 Health Summit and Program Brochure here: Summit Program Guide( PDF)

* Please note , you may print and fill in the form and mail in your registration accompanied with your check made out to Mass PTA or press the Register Button and register on line by credit card.

2017 Summit Events

Thursday, November 17, 2017

7:30 a.m.	Registration Opens
7:30 a.m. – 8:00 a.m.	Networking with Healthy Continental Breakfast and Vendor Exhibit
8:00 a.m. – 8:20 a.m.	Opening of the Conference: Moderator – Jackie Coogan, MA PTA Health, Safety and Wellness Chair Opening Remarks  from Jennifer Francioso, MA PTA President Welcome from Jim Accamondo, National PTA President Welcome from Erin Wholey, NE Dairy and Food Council, Partner/Sponsor Welcome from Spencer Carver, Mountain America Credit Union, Sponsor
8:20 a.m. – 8:30 a.m.	BOKS, Move and Keeping Fit “Lets Start Moving” – Laura Burati, Program & Training Manager
8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.	Plenary Session/Morning Keynote Speakers : “I’m OK!” Jackie Coogan, MA PTA Health, Safety and Wellness Chair Jim Accomando, National PTA, President Plenary Key Note Speakers(s): Jessica Minahan, MEd, BCBA Welcome – Dr. Erik Champy, Vice President, Massachusetts Teachers Assoc/Partner/Platinum Sponsor Welcome from Rophe Mason, Boosterthon, Sponsor
9:45 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.	Session A: Break Out Rooms 1-6 Workshops/Panel Presentations/Round Table Discussions  (view session options)
11:05 a.m. – 12:20 p.m.	Session B: Break Out Rooms 1-6 Workshops/Panel Presentations/Round Table Discussions (view session options)
12:20 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.	Lunch and Networking and Vendor Exhibits Welcome from Max Lane, Retired NFL Patriot Player Welcome from Pam Formosa, MA OTR/L, Brain Fit Academy
1:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.	Afternoon Keynote Speakers “Taking Action!” Keynote Speaker: Dr. Katherine Grimes, M.D. Welcome: Jackie Coogan, MA PTA Health, Safety and Wellness Chair
1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.	Healthy Communities Diversity Panel Moderator – Matthew John Rodriquez, Immediate Past President IL PTA Panelists: Eileen Dern, RN, CE, Halmark Health Michael Henry , President, George School PTA Lisa Jackson, MS RD LDN, MA Department of Elementary and                                               Secondary Education Juan San Miguel, Past President, AK PTA
2:15 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.	Closing Remarks: Jim Accamondo, National PTA President Jennifer Francioso, MA PTA President Membership and Keeping Local Units “Healthy”