Join us for a compelling conversation with Trisha Backman as she explores some of the most urgent challenges in today’s education system. Trisha shares her insights on the critical role of mental health in schools and how cultivating a culture of learning can empower both students and educators. We dive into her efforts to connect state agencies and uplift the voices of marginalized groups, such as students with special learning needs, justice-involved youth, foster care children, homeless students, and migrant families. Trisha also discusses the need to reduce exclusionary practices in schools and presents practical strategies for creating more inclusive environments. Plus, hear about the "Crisis Prevention Toolkit," a project aimed at equipping educators with the tools they need to support students in times of crisis. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice for anyone committed to fostering a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.

About Trisha Backman:

Trish Backman is a 27-year special educator who recently joined KSDE as the School Mental Health Coordinator. She has bachelor’s degrees in psychology, special education and a masters in curriculum and instruction as well as building-level administration. She started in education with students grades 7-12 who were identified with behavior disorders and emotional disabilities. She worked in public education for 17 years and has 8 years of experience in correctional education setting with violent aggressors and severe mental health concentrations. Currently, in her role at KSDE, Trish works with significant disproportionality, school discipline, emergency safety interventions, suicide and addiction supports, and grant funding to provide stronger connections within the school and community.She also serves on the Governor’s Behavior Health Advisory Committe, Zero Suicide Prevetion Coalition, The Kansas Prevention Coalition Advisory team, and the Kansas Interagency Behavioral Health Policy Advisory Team.  Her passion is to help each child see who they are and develop the individual strengths they have. She believes each student can learn and grow. She brings energy and determination to helping systems work together for the best possible outcomes for Kansas kids.

Suicide Prevention, Intervention, Reintegration and Postvention (A toolkit for Kansas schools) (PDF)

Training Video (YouTube) / Worksheet (PDF)