The 71st annual Fall Conference for School Counselors, slated for Nov. 17, will feature a keynote presentation from award-winning educator Brandi Heather. 

The conference will be from 8:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Emporia State University’s Memorial Union. It is sponsored by the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE), ESU and the Kansas School Counselor Association. 

Heather will delve into the science of play and its remarkable ability to reshape the approach to personal and professional mental wellness, capability and connection. Through engaging anecdotes, research-backed insights and practical tools, the keynote will unveil the transformative power of play. 

Heather also will host an afternoon session, “Unstructured Play Strategies for Building Resilience, Readiness and Reconnection at Any Age.” 

There are 10 more breakout sessions to choose from, including one from KSDE staff members on the KSDE Suicide Prevention, Response, and Postvention Toolkit. Other topics include addressing social-emotional and character development, art therapy, emerging leaders, support and strategies for educator wellness and navigating the college admissions process. 

During a luncheon, Kansas School Counselor Association Awards will be announced. 

Registration fees, which include the luncheon and breaks, are $95 before Oct. 17; $110 between Oct. 17 and Nov. 3; and $95 for late or on-site registration (doesn’t include luncheon). The fee to attend the luncheon only is $22. 

A parking permit is required to park on campus and is included in the registration fees. 

Register here. 

For registration or payment questions, contact Dr. Alice Hinck at afrost@emporia.edu.