Kentucky School Counselor Association logo

September 20-22, 2023
Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa
1800 Newtown Pike
Lexington, KY

Kentucky School Counselor Association Conference September 20-22, 2023 header
Kentucky School Counselor Association Conference September 20-22, 2023 header
Kentucky School Counselor Association Conference September 20-22, 2023 header
Join us for the KSCA Conference
September 20-22, 2023
Register to Attend
Dynamic Speakers
Gain insights, inspiration, and effective plans of action.
Featured Speakers
30+ Exhibitors
Meet with exhibitors to get valuable resources and information for your school.
Register to Attend
Network and be Refreshed
Get a much needed break and find encouragement from hundreds of school counselors across the state.
Register to Attend
Engaging Breakout Sessions
Multiple breakout sessions available to gain insights, inspiration, and effective plans of action.
Register to Attend
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Don't miss Kentucky's premier conference for school counselors!

Thanks for joining us for the 2023 Kentucky School Counselor Association Conference!​

We hope to see you next year!

Learn more about our Sponsors

ABC’s KSA Success Workbooks, eBooks, and New Online Testing are your key to school-wide performance improvement! KSA Success workbooks include free eBooks, Online Testing administration, scoring, and data report features, plus Teacher’s Guides. Built-in analytics, mapped to current Kentucky Academic Standards, help you provide data-driven instruction customized to your students’ needs. Request your free ABC sample copy today!

For more information please contact Michele Lantz, Senior Account Executive at (888) 264-5877 or mlantz@americanbookcompany.com.

Kentucky College Coaches is a statewide AmeriCorps program that places mentors in secondary and post-secondary schools to support college and career access and student success. These AmeriCorps service members are tasked with acting as coaches to selected students, helping them be successful in all aspects of their school career. At the high school level, the student participants are encouraged to think about, apply for and achieve acceptance to college or some sort of post-secondary option.

For more information, please contact Shellie Baker, Program Manager , at shellie.baker@kycompact.org. or at (859) 743-3661.

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Digital Flyer

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With a network of 30,000+ schools and thousands of partners who share our mission, EVERFI delivers engaging digital resources, free of charge so teachers can equip students with real world skills for success beyond the classroom.

For more information contact Jonathan Barnes, Education Success Specialist at k12north@everfi.com or (614) 507-5977. 

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The Gatton Academy of Mathematics and Science is Kentucky’s first residential 2-year STEM program for gifted and talented juniors and  seniors. Established in 2007, students enroll as juniors and are full-time WKU students pursuing their interests in advanced science, technology, engineering, and mathematical careers, all while receiving a full scholarship for their housing, tuition, and meals.

For more information please contact Kari Lynn Somers, Assistant Director of Admissions and Public Relations at (270) 745-2971 or academy@wku.edu.

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Enlisting in the National Guard means more time at home. Training typically requires one weekend each month, with a two-week training period once each year. Soldiers can get a college degree, learn job skills that translate to the civilian world and make bonds that last a lifetime all while serving part-time close to home. The Kentucky Army National Guard can also pay for students’ college tuition to KY State Colleges and Universities. Live Here. Serve Here. Learn Here. 

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Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority (KHEAA) has a mission to improve students’ access to postsecondary education. For over half a century, KHEAA has enhanced the educational opportunities available to Kentucky students by administering state financial aid programs and providing Kentuckians with services and information about higher education. KHEAA’s Outreach service is vital in fulfilling the agency’s mission and helping students and families plan, prepare and pay for college.

For more information please contact Casi Benedict at 502.759.1776.

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Outreach Counselor Map

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KY Goes to College Programs

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FAFSA Training Registration

Milton Hershey School is one of the world’s best private schools, where qualifying students in pre-kindergarten through 12th grade live on campus. Students receive an exceptional educational experience, nurturing home life, college and career readiness support, and comprehensive health and wellness care, including medical and dental services, food, and clothing—with all costs covered. 

For more information contact Sara T. White at Whitesa@mhs-pa.org.

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The Monique Burr Foundation for Children (MBF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting youth from bullying, online dangers, and all types of child abuse by providing evidence-based/trauma-informed personal safety and prevention education programs. MBF Programs include MBF Child Safety Matters® (for elementary schools), MBF Teen Safety Matters® (for middle and high schools), MBF Athlete Safety Matters® (for youth athletes), and MBF After-School Safety Matters® (for after-school and youth-serving organizations). For more information, please contact Julie LeMay, Customer Service Manager, at julie@mbfpreventioneducation.org or at 904.562.1846.
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SchooLinks is a modern college and career  readiness platform that supports districts’ implementation of a comprehensive curriculum and framework to prepare students for the post-secondary pathway of their choice. Containing more than eighty interactive student experiences from interest discoveries, academic planning, and soft skill development – SchooLinks offers internship matching, career mentorship, industry partner management, and more to help districts support holistic postsecondary readiness. Our unified solution helps to exceed Kentucky state legislation for supporting students’ graduation requirements and equitable postsecondary outcomes. For more information please contact Mike Sandridge, Account Executive at msandridge@schoolinks.com or (410) 596-3833.
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Innovation Guide

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SCUTA is used by school  counselors and school districts to develop a data-driven, evidence based school counseling program. It follows the ASCA National Model® recommendations and offers confidential, comprehensive documentation and use of time analysis system. It is an invaluable tool for School Counselors who want to do best practice, keep accurate records and develop a data driven school counseling program.

School Counselors using SCUTA, have the ability to clearly illustrate the nature of their work and school needs with supervisors and stakeholders.

For more information please contact Kathy.

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Terrace Metrics is a comprehensive system that promotes resiliency in every student, pre-k and older. It is the only company that ties results from a fast, cloud-based assessment to empirically based curricula that corresponds all tiers of the MTSS framework. Terrace Metrics provides school personnel with the knowledge to design, implement and evaluate prevention and intervention programs with little effort and high effectiveness. The system is used nationwide and in over 60 KY districts.

For more information please contact Keith Kline, Director of Programs at keith.kline@terracemetrics.org. or (800) 470-4401. 

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Executive Summary

Thank you for checking out UPS! We offer an array of educational programs that cater to the needs of your students. Our Metro College program provides 100% tuition with part time employment, to the University of Louisville or Jefferson Community Technical College. For information on tuition assistance go to UPSjobsky.com, choose programs for the full list of detailed educational opportunities.

For additional employment opportunities go to UPSjobs.com or contact Mary Krauser, Talent Acquisition Specialist at (502) 835-5471 or mkrauser@ups.com.

The U.S. Army provides state-of-the-art education and skill training in a multitude of career fields from Culinary to Aviation to Medical and Engineering to name a few. Learn about free education resources the Army offers to students and teachers. Connect with the Education Services representative who can provide presentations on these resources, ASVAB Career Exploration Program (CEP), March 2 Success test prep course and Army benefits to you, your parents, or your school! 

For more information please contact Dawne Divine at dawne.c.divine.civ@army.mil.

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Xello is an engaging, online program that helps K-12 students define their future goals and transform their aspirations into actionable plans for success. The program puts students at the center of their college and career planning experience. It helps them build self-knowledge, explore their options, create a plan, and develop the 21st-century skills needed to thrive in the world of work. 

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Digital Brochure

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Xello for Elementary

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Xello for College

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SPEAKERS

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Tara Brown headshot

Tara Brown

Meredith Draughn

Embracing the  Power of Your Leadership Footprint

Tara Brown

Keynote Session
September 21, 2023 | 8:30 a.m.

ABOUT THIS SESSION:

It has been said that ‘we never touch another so lightly that we do not leave a trace’. In this humorous inspirational keynote, Tara emphasizes that we are all leaders in some capacity, regardless of title or position, and that kids are constantly seeking leaders who they can follow. Through powerful stories of her time spent both teaching and coaching diverse populations, Tara emphasizes the importance of embracing intentional actions that will inspire and motivate. Characteristics of great leaders will be discussed and attendees will take away tremendous encouragement with which to embrace the power of their leadership footprint on a daily basis.

SPEAKER BIO:

Tara’s 25 year journey has taken her from rural Florida, to Gang Territory in North Long Beach, CA, and to one
of the largest high schools in Tennessee with students representing over 37 countries.

She is recognized as a specialist in connecting with youth and building relationships with students and staff. Her career has impacted mainstream, at risk teens and nontraditional leaders by empowering them with leadership and life skills and guiding them toward the life they envisioned. She received the Pioneer Award and Teacher of the Year award in 2006 for her work in piloting the Leadership Development program at Antioch High School. Her passion continues to drive her to work with teachers across the nation to better equip them with the ability to connect and have meaningful relationships with their students, in order that more relevant learning can take place. Tara’s workshops are designed to help introduce educators to the latest brain-based learning research and resiliency factors, as well as provide classroom implementation strategies.


From the Shadows to the Spotlight: Promoting School Counselor Success

Meredith Draughn

Keynote Speaker
September 22, 2023 | 11:00 a.m.

ABOUT THIS SESSION:

School counselors are uniquely qualified to address the mental health needs of students, yet often struggle to showcase the impact of their programs. Join ASCA School Counselor of the Year, Meredith Draughn, as she shares strategies for elevating the visibility of school counselor success and promoting positive outcomes for students. Attendees will leave with practical tools for advocacy and showcasing program impact, unlocking opportunities for professional growth and systemic change.

Meredith will also be presenting a breakout session.

SPEAKER BIO:

Meredith Draughn is the 2023 American School Counseling Association’s School Counselor of the Year. She was previously selected as North Carolina’s 2021-2022 School Counselor of the Year. She has 9 years of experience at both the elementary, middle and high school levels. She received her bachelor’s degree from Wake Forest University in Health and Exercise Science and her master’s degree from Appalachian State University in Professional School Counseling. Meredith is a National Board Certified School Counselor and is an ASCA School Counseling Leadership Specialist; Mental Health Specialist; Anxiety & Stress Management Specialist; Cultural Competency Specialist; and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialist. She is currently the sole school counselor at B. Everett Jordan Elementary School, which earned RAMP (Recognized ASCA Model Program) recognition in 2021.

PRE-CONFERENCE SPEAKERS

Raychelle Cassada Lohmann headshot

Raychelle Cassada Lohmann

Amy Beal headshot

Amy Beal

Kyle Thomas headshot

Kyle Thomas

Andrea Sebastian Headshot

Andrea Sebastian

The Pre-Conference Learning Sessions are an additional opportunity for more professional development and CEU contact hours. The sessions generally cover more in-depth information and allows more opportunity for discussion. These sessions are not included in the conference registration fee and have a minimal fee. Space is limited. Interested participants are encouraged to register early. Sessions run concurrently, so only one may be chosen.


Understanding and Managing Disruptive Behaviors in Schools

Raychelle Cassada Lohmann

Pre-Conference Session
September 20, 2023 | 2:00 p.m.

ABOUT THIS SESSION:

Nationwide schools are experiencing a rise in disruptive student behaviors. Behavioral issues can adversely impact the school environment leading to more peer-to-peer conflict, classroom disruptions, and even staff exhaustion. Educators know firsthand the amount of time spent on disciplining and redirecting challenging behaviors. In this interactive session, you will learn how to accurately assess and interpret challenging behaviors and effectively identify the antecedents for disruptive outbursts. Additionally, you will learn evidence-based coping skills to help your students manage their emotions and control their behavior, leading to more favorable outcomes. This session will help equip you with the essential knowledge to help your students minimize challenging behaviors and maximize academic, emotional, and social success.

SPEAKER BIO:

Raychelle Cassada Lohmann, Ph.D., is a counselor educator, clinical mental health counselor, school counselor, and international author of numerous books, including two in the 15-Minute Focus series: Anger, Rage and Aggression, and Growth Mindset, Resilience, and Grit, along with many others. Raychelle has expertise in a wide range of issues affecting children and adolescents, from anger and aggression to anxiety and depression to sexual trauma and bullying. Raychelle attended North Carolina State University, receiving her B.A. in psychology, her M.S. in counselor education, and her Ph.D. in counseling and counselor education. With 25 years in the counseling profession, Raychelle has devoted much of her time to working with children, adolescents, parents, and educators.
Raychelle is a licensed clinical mental health counselor supervisor and licensed school counselor in NC, and a licensed professional counselor in SC. She is also an EMDR-trained provider and holds the following certifications: Approved Clinical Supervisor (ACS), Board Certified Telemental Health Provider (BCTMH), Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF).


Proactive Counseling for the Post-Covid Student

Amy Beal, Kyle Thomas, Andrea Sebastian

Pre-Conference Session
September 20, 2023 | 2:00 p.m.

ABOUT THIS SESSION:

Attendees will learn proactive, evidence-based strategies and best practices for large group, small group, and individual counseling based on the current developmental needs of our students post-Covid. Presentation will include large group collaboration as well as breakout time based on levels (elementary and middle/high.). Counselors will leave with easy to implement strategies to impact student success through their school counseling program.

SPEAKERS BIOS:

Amy Beal has been a practicing school counselor for 11 years.  As a comprehensive school counselor, her passion lies in cultivating joy & success in her students through evidence-based data-driven interventions.  She was named the 2019 KY Elementary School Counselor of the Year & the 2020 KY School Counselor of the Year and has earned the ASCA RAMP designation in 2016 and Re-RAMPed in 2021.  Beal is an executive board member of the KY School Counselor Association and serves as a member of the KDE Commissioner’s School Counselor Advisory Counsel and was a contributor to the KY Framework of Best Practices for School Counselors.  She also serves on Community Advisory boards for NKU and UC. She is an adjunct faculty member at Xavier University and a site supervisor for practicum and internship students from NKU, UC and Xavier University.   Beal also enjoys presenting at local, state and national conferences.

Kyle Thomas is currently a school counselor at Oldham County Middle School in LaGrange, KY. He previously served as a school counselor in both the High School and Alternative school settings. Kyle is a Past-President of the Kentucky School Counselor Association and currently serves as KSCA’s conference chair.

Andrea Sebastian has been a Professional School Counselor for twelve years in Campbell County, KY. During this time she has experience working with students at all levels. Making data-driven comprehensive school counseling a priority has led to Andrea being a part of three successful Recognized ASCA Model Programs including the most recent recognition resulting in the only current RAMP School of Distinction in Kentucky. Andrea was the Kentucky School Counselor of the Year in 2021 and has chosen to take on leadership roles including presenting at the state and national level as well as serving as the Kentucky School Counselor Association PD Chair.

SCHEDULE

REGISTRATION

Advanced Registration Deadline:
September 17, 2023

Become a Member

Please visit the KSCA website and become a member or renew your annual membership. For questions about KSCA membership please contact, Heather Wells at heather.wells@boyd.kyschools.us.

Main Conference | September 21-22

Professional / Affiliate Member*

$205

Save $20 if you register by July 31!**

Student / Retiree / Emeritus Member*

$105

Save $20 if you register by July 31!**

Non-Member

$250

Become a Member and Save! Details below.

Onsite registration adds $30 to your rate, so register now! (Non-Member rate will not change.) Details on the registration form below.

Pre-Conference | September 20

Professional / Affiliate

$50

Student / Retiree / Emeritus

$40

*Your KSCA membership must be good through September 22, 2023 to qualify for these rates.

**To qualify for the early registration discount, your registration form AND payment (copy of your purchase order, check, or credit card) must be received or postmarked by the early registration cutoff date.  

CANCELLATION POLICY: If we are forced to cancel the KSCA Conference because of a “force majeure” event, such as a government restriction on large gatherings that cover the intended size of the conference, then we will issue full refunds of the registrations. Otherwise, our normal cancellation policy will be upheld: There will be no refunds after August 20, 2023. All cancellations before August 20, 2023 will be refunded less a $25 handling fee. The conference is not responsible for and cannot give refunds due to problems beyond its control such as weather or school closings. The sponsors of the conference receive registrant contact information.
On social distancing and other health and safety measures, the regulations/guidelines that apply to hotels and conference centers may change. The KSCA Conference will conform to all necessary regulations/guidelines that are in place as of the date of the conference.

ACCOMMODATIONS

VENUE & HOST HOTEL:

Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa

1800 Newtown Pike
Lexington, KY 40511 

Map

Reservation information coming soon.

All events of the conference will be located at the Griffin Gate Marriott Resort & Spa. Standard rooms at the hotel may be reserved at a special conference rate of $159 per night, plus tax. This rate is valid through August 28, 2023.

You can also book a room by calling (800) 228-9290 or (859) 231-5100. Be sure to mention the Kentucky School Counselor Association.

Make Hotel Reservations Early! Limited Availability!

Come Learn and Play!

In the evening, make sure you take time to relax and enjoy the surrounding area. Visit the Hamburg Pavilion, just minutes away from the Marriott. You can sit back and relax at the many restaurants available, such as Logan’s Roadhouse, Tekka, and Old Chicago, along with others. Enjoy shopping at the White House / Black Market, DSW, Bath & Body Works, and many more! Click here to see all the fun you can have at the Hamburg Pavilion.

We hope this conference will educate and equip you to do your job well, and we also hope you will take advantage of the wonderful ways you can relax and be refreshed!

CONTACT INFORMATION

866.318.6294

Fax 423.899.4547

registrations@ncyi.org

National Center for Youth Issues
ATTN: KY-SCA
P.O. Box 22185
Chattanooga, TN 37422-2185

Make all checks and purchase orders payable to:
National Center for Youth Issues

The Attendee will receive an email confirmation to the email address provided when their registration is processed. (Make sure to check Junk/Spam folders.) Please allow ample time for processing.

Please contact KSCA directly with all membership questions.

Sponsors receive attendee contact information.

All intellectual property rights in and to the KSCA Annual Conference (“the Event”), the content and all materials distributed at or in connection with the Event are owned by the Kentucky School Counselor Association and/or the Event sponsors or speakers presenting at the Event. You may not use or reproduce or allow anyone to use or reproduce any trademarks or other trade names appearing at the Event, in any Event content and/or in any materials distributed at or in connection with the Event for any reason without the prior written permission of Kentucky School Counselor Association or the presenting speaker.