Name: From Conflict to Connections: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Staff and Families
Start: 2026-08-07T10:15:00-0700
End: 2026-08-07T11:15:00-0700

From Conflict to Connections: Navigating Difficult Conversations with Staff and Families

LIMITED

Friday August 7, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am PDT

Yreka High School, Room #11

Limited Capacity seats available

Conflict is inevitable, but how we respond defines the culture of our programs. This interactive session explores practical strategies for navigating challenging conversations with empathy, professionalism, and emotional safety. Participants will learn how to build a strong site climate by assuming positive intent, engaging in active listening, and asking open-ended, solution-focused questions. We’ll explore how past experiences, cultural norms, and unspoken fears can shape communication—and how leaders and educators can respond with clarity, transparency, and compassion. The session will also examine the role of self-reflection in leadership: when to take ownership, how to model vulnerability, and how to coach others through growth without judgment. Whether supporting a family concern or addressing staff conflict, attendees will leave with tools to foster trust, repair relationships, and turn difficult moments into meaningful growth.

Speakers

Barry Barnhart

Deputy Superintendent Educational Services, Siskiyou County Office of Education

I am starting my second year as the assistant county superintendent at the Siskiyou County Office of Education. Prior to that, I built fourteen years of administrative experience across two districts in Modoc and Siskiyou Counties. I began my teaching career with the Sacramento... Read More →

Amanda Elsemore

Early Childhood Education Coordinator and CSPP Director Educational Services, Siskiyou County Office of Education

Friday August 7, 2026 10:15am - 11:15am PDT
Yreka High School, Room #11

Breakout Session 1

Success you have shared X tickets.

SCOE Back To School Symposium

Barry Barnhart

Amanda Elsemore

Get help with the event

Success you have shared X tickets.

SCOE Back To School Symposium

Barry Barnhart

Amanda Elsemore

Sign up or log in to save this to your schedule, view media, leave feedback and see who's attending!

Get help with the event