Breakout Session Two: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)

In this session, we will learn about the key findings of the Adverse Childhood Experiences Study, explore how adversity can influence brain development, and understand core protective systems and protective factors that can mitigate the effects of adversity in children and adults. The use of the ACE score provides a practical way to summarize the cumulative effects of ACES/trauma on health and well-being that are prevalent in our society today. We will discuss aspects of resiliency and how this can lead to self-healing communities.

Presenter: Wendy Gammelo, ISD 181

Wendy Gammello holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Texas Christian
University and a Masters Degree in Differentiated Instruction from Concordia University in St. Paul, Minnesota. Wendy has been a special education teacher with the Brainerd school district for 32 years, servicing students with a variety of disabilities and trauma. Having been trained by the MN Communities Caring for Children (now called FamilyWise) in ACE Interface, Wendy now shares the message of how childhood trauma affects the developing brain and seeks to build resilience in those affected by trauma.