EduLead 2025: Full Schedule

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9:45am CST

Belonging at TAS: Insights from Focus Groups and the Path Forward LIMITED

Friday May 9, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am CST

Taipei International School continues its commitment to fostering a school community grounded in dignity and respect. Over the past two years, Dr. Gay has worked closely with TAS, engaging students, parents, faculty, staff, and the board to deepen understanding and strengthen efforts around belonging. During his most recent visit in October, he conducted focus groups to gather insights into the lived experiences within the school, identifying key strengths, challenges, and opportunities for growth.

In this session, Dr. Gay will share themes that emerged from these discussions, placing them within the larger context of belonging in international schools. Parents and students will engage in meaningful conversations to explore what these findings reveal about the TAS experience and how they can inform efforts moving forward. Participants will also learn about research-based strategies that support a culture of dignity and respect, fostering stronger connections within the school community. This session provides an opportunity to reflect on progress, reinforce shared commitments, and consider ways to further strengthen belonging at TAS.

Speakers

Dr. Derrick Gay

Dr. Derrick Gay is a globally recognized Belonging and Intercultural Strategist, dedicated to fostering cultures of dignity and respect. With multifaceted expertise as an international speaker, author, researcher, educator, and university lecturer, Dr. Gay empowers individuals and... Read More →

Friday May 9, 2025 9:45am - 11:00am CST
Harmony Theater

Whole Community (Anyone)

11:15am CST

Fostering Cultures of Dignity and Respect: The Educator’s Role in Addressing Bullying and Identity-Based Harm LIMITED

Friday May 9, 2025 11:15am - 12:30pm CST

Harmony Theater

Bullying and identity-based harm are pervasive challenges in international schools, impacting student well-being, academic success, and overall school climate. However, not all harm constitutes bullying. This interactive workshop introduces Dr. Gay’s Fostering Cultures of Dignity and Respect framework, equipping educators with research-based strategies to recognize, address, and prevent harmful behaviors while distinguishing between bullying, conflict, and teasing.

Grounded in evidence-based approaches, this session shifts schools beyond punitive discipline toward proactive, belonging-centered practices. Through discussion, reflection, and case studies, educators will examine their role in setting norms, modeling inclusive behavior, and fostering student agency in creating a respectful school climate. Participants will explore the defining characteristics of bullying, understand how differences are used to marginalize peers, and learn interventions that mitigate and address harm. Additionally, they will gain practical strategies to build a culture where all students feel seen, valued, and safe—ensuring a school environment that prioritizes dignity, respect, and inclusion.

Speakers

Dr. Derrick Gay

Friday May 9, 2025 11:15am - 12:30pm CST
Harmony Theater

Teachers/Staff/Administrators Session

1:30pm CST

Fostering Cultures of Dignity and Respect: Creating a Safe and Inclusive School Community LIMITED

Friday May 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST

Harmony Theater

Schools thrive when students, parents, and educators work together to create an environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and safe. However, not all harm is bullying, and understanding the differences between conflict, teasing, and bullying is essential. This session introduces Dr. Gay’s Fostering Cultures of Dignity and Respect framework, equipping students and parents with research-based strategies to recognize, address, and prevent harmful behaviors. Participants will gain a clear understanding of bullying—its defining characteristics of intentional harm, power imbalance, and repetition—and explore how it manifests physically, verbally, socially, and online. With the increasing role of social media in students' lives, the session will also highlight the impact of cyberbullying, including harmful messages, exclusion, and the rapid spread of rumors.

The session will examine why bullying happens, unpacking the social dynamics that contribute to harmful behaviors, such as peer pressure, insecurity, group hierarchies, and bystander behavior. Students will be empowered with practical tools to respond effectively, whether experiencing bullying themselves or witnessing it happen to others. They will learn strategies to become active bystanders, safely intervene when appropriate, and seek support from trusted adults. Special attention will be given to navigating online spaces, including recognizing harmful digital behaviors, setting boundaries on social media, and knowing when to report online harassment.

Speakers

Dr. Derrick Gay

Friday May 9, 2025 1:30pm - 2:45pm CST
Harmony Theater

Whole Community (Anyone)