Rooted in Belonging: Cultivating Resilient Schools & Minds
Mendocino County educators, counselors, and youth-serving professionals are invited to come together for Rooted in Belonging: Cultivating Resilient Schools & Minds, a two-day conference focused on supporting the whole student.
Taking place in Redwood Valley, interior Mendocino County June 24, 2026, this event is designed to create a collaborative space where participants can share practical strategies and real-world approaches to the challenges young people are facing today.
The conference centers on three key areas:
- Student belonging and engagement
- Mental health and wellness
- Suicide prevention and connectedness
- Resilient school communities
- Practical strategies and collaborative learning
Participants can expect meaningful conversations, actionable ideas, and opportunities to connect with others working to strengthen school communities across the region.
Keynote Speaker: Stan Collins
Stan Collins is a nationally recognized suicide prevention advocate and workshop presenter who has presented to more than half a million people on topics related to suicide prevention and mental health. Through his work, Collins has planned and coordinated strategic efforts focused on system-level change and has served on committees for the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline and Suicide Prevention Resource Center related to suicide loss survivors.
Collins is the co-founder of Youth Creating Change, an organization that uses arts and film projects to educate youth about mental health and suicide prevention. He also serves as a member of the California Department of Education’s Student Mental Health Policy Workgroup. During the conference, Collins will deliver a keynote presentation and lead multiple workshops focused on suicide prevention, connectedness, and creating supportive school environments.
Conference Details
• Wednesday, June 24, 2026
• 8:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
• Coyote Valley Wyndham Garden, Redwood Valley
• Free registration
• Continuing education units available
Questions? Please contact Amanda Pantaleon, (707) 467-5145.