May 2017
Dr. Bailey and Conscious Discipline leadership met with members of Congress, positioning Conscious Discipline as an expert advocate for social-emotional learning (SEL) for children and SEL training for educators.
In a fast-paced 2-day trip in March, Dr. Bailey and members of Conscious Discipline leadership traveled to Capitol Hill to introduce Conscious Discipline to members of the House and Senate, and advocate for increased social-emotional learning (SEL) opportunities on behalf of children and educators.
Dr. Bailey repeatedly referred to SEL as “mental health for children” as she built relationships, conveyed essential SEL basics, and advocated for better and more effective SEL. Additional focus was given to efforts within Head Start, Impact AID schools, the Department of Defense (military schools) and the Department of Education.
The Conscious Discipline team met with the offices of Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Senator Lamar Alexander (R-TN), Senator Bill Nelson (D-FL), Representative Stephanie Murphy (D-FL), Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Representative Bobby Scott (D-VA), Representative Susan Davis (D-CA) and Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL).
These meetings were an initial step in Conscious Discipline’s ongoing efforts to build relationships and increase awareness in order to affect change in policies at a national level. Executive Director Renee Whittington says the Conscious Discipline team “met and exceeded our core goal of introducing Congress to Conscious Discipline so they know who we are, what we do, the importance of SEL and that we’re here, ready and willing to help!”
Julie Ruffo
Julie Ruffo hails from the Washington, D.C. area and holds a degree in Corporate Media from James Madison University. She’s enjoyed an evolving role with Conscious Discipline since 1999, including contractor, Creative Director, Director of Publishing and Product Development, and Brand Manager. Julie is a steadfast behind-the-scenes force in the authoring, product development, messaging, and mission of Conscious Discipline. When she’s not glued to her laptop, she can be found with her toes in the sand of the Outer Banks, experimenting in the kitchen, screaming on a roller coaster, or planning the next family adventure.
