What helps students learn, and what helps educators keep going in complex systems?

In this episode, Dayna Haig-Conway speaks with Gina Cherkowski about belonging, identity, neurodiversity, teacher wellbeing, and why students learn better when they are well.

Gina is the Executive Director of the Werklund Institute for Social and Emotional Intelligence Canada and the founder of the Mental Health in Schools Summit. This conversation explores what resilience looks like in education, how burnout shows up in helping professions, and why curiosity and connection matter so much in schools.

In this episode, we discuss: • Why student wellbeing and learning are deeply connected • The role of belonging in resilience • How identity shapes learning experiences • Why educators need support, not more pressure • How teacher stress can affect students • Why curiosity helps us respond with more care • The importance of support networks for leaders and educators • Gina’s work through the Mental Health in Schools Summit

About Gina Cherkowski: Dr. Gina Cherkowski is the Executive Director of the Werklund Institute for Social and Emotional Intelligence Canada and the founder of the Mental Health in Schools Summit. Her research and leadership focus on belonging, identity, neurodiversity, and wellbeing in education.

Gina works alongside schools and organizations to support universal mental health and wellbeing for both students and the adults who support them. She is passionate about helping educators cultivate environments where connection, respect, and flourishing are possible for every learner and every educator.

Resources mentioned: Mental Health in Schools Summit ⁠www.mentalhealthinschoolsummit.com⁠

Summit Registration

Contact Gina: ⁠gina.cherkowski@werklundsei.com⁠

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