Claire de Mézerville López welcomes Cheyenne E. Rhodes to the Restorative Works! Podcast. 

Cheyenne speaks with us about her insights into the evolution of her approach to intervention, realizing the need for trauma-informed care, positive behavioral support, and restorative practices. She shares examples of the power of data analysis in shaping interventions, understanding the importance of cooperation, and being in the “with” box when fostering relationships. Through her experiences, Cheyenne emphasizes the common thread among diverse groups facing trauma, homelessness, or discrimination: the need to shift from survival behaviors to thriving behaviors.

Cheyenne is the behavioral data and PBIS intervention coordinator at The American School for the Deaf in Connecticut's PACES Residential Treatment Program. She is pivotal in guiding the school to achieve PBIS Model Demonstration Site recognition, leading her to collaborate with UCONN on PBIS best practices. Cheyenne began her career with the Knowledge Project in New York City, igniting a passion for providing inner-city students across Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Manhattan with a haven after school—a space immersed in the arts, encompassing theatre, dance, music, and visual arts. Beyond her professional endeavors, her most cherished role is that of a mother to two remarkable boys. Their vibrancy and curiosity fuel her commitment to positively impacting the world.

 

Tune in to learn more about Cheyenne’s perspective on the early intervention of positive relationship building and managing conflict with diverse and trauma-affected youth.