Summer Learning Institute 2026

Fusion Charter School staff return to the PSC Summer Learning Institute in Morro Bay to share an evolved approach to Restorative Practice Talking Circles. Building on prior presentations, this interactive session introduces a new dimension through the use of Conversation Starter Cards developed by Dr. Nancy Dome of Epoch Education. Participants will engage directly in a Restorative Practice Talking Circle and use Compassionate Dialogue cards to explore statements rooted in generalizations and stereotypes about different groups. Some prompts may feel uncomfortable, and that discomfort is part of the work. When educators are willing to surface difficult statements in a structured and respectful environment, they create the opportunity to reflect, respond, and grow.
Grounded in the RIR Protocol, participants will practice the three steps of the Compassionate Dialogue framework: Recognize it, Interrupt it, and Repair it. This experiential session invites educators to engage authentically, deepen understanding, and expand empathy through courageous conversation. Rather than seeking performative agreement, the session is designed to strengthen participants’ capacity to navigate challenging dialogue in ways that build compassion, trust, and collaboration within schools and communities.

This presentation offers a practical blueprint for operationalizing a truly unified MTSS by intentionally aligning a school’s organizational architecture with its strong, positive cultural features. We will share a case study demonstrating how our comprehensive 6-8  setting achieved system coherence, moving MTSS from a set of separate initiatives to an integrated framework centered on fostering belonging and inclusion for every student. The session will detail our specific approach, which starts with inventorying existing assets and strategically mapping them across the three MTSS domains. Key organizational features discussed include leveraging the Professional Learning Community (PLC) structure for academic intervention like “Grizzly Power Hour,” utilizing specialized support teams (COST/SST), and integrating data systems (SWIS/DESSA) to drive decisions. We will specifically highlight how behavioral systems, such as PBIS and Restorative Justice, are reinforced by a strong cultural foundation built on positive recognition systems like "GRRR Passes" and "Grizzly Celebration." Crucially, we will showcase how dedicated cultural elements like "SEL Wednesdays" and the use of the "Grizzly Zen Den" ensure social-emotional health is systematically embedded into Tier 1. Attendees will receive concrete, actionable strategies for transforming existing meetings and celebrations into powerful drivers of MTSS. This session will provide leaders and practitioners with a roadmap to inventory their own structures and assets, build cultural buy-in, and successfully unify their multi-tiered supports, resulting in improved academic outcomes and a stronger sense of student belonging.

This session, led by Dr. David Diehl, Director of Student and Community Services at Selma Unified School District, delves into the complexities of drug abuse in schools. Drawing from Dr. Diehl's extensive background in both law enforcement and education, participants will gain insights into various categories of drugs, understand the signs and symptoms of drug use, and explore practical intervention strategies. The session will focus on building a tiered approach to prevention and treatment, highlighting the importance of ongoing education for students, staff, and families. Attendees will leave with resources and tools to foster a safer and more informed school environment.