Community Conversation 2025

Wednesday, March 26 | 6 - 8 p.m.

This is our second year hosting a Centreville Community Conversation. We invite you to join us for an informative night on various topics that impact our kids. This year's event is intended to offer a variety of topics presented by school staff. You will be able to attend three 30-minute presentations. The event is free and open to any parent/guardian of students in all grade levels at Centreville Public Schools. We hope you can join us for this night of important learning.

Registration is required. Please register by Sunday, March 23.
Registration Link (opens in new window)

COURSE OFFERINGS

Vaping: What are the Risks?

Presented by Mikayla Finnerman of Pivotal

This presentation will focus on the health risks of vaping/e-cigarettes, along with a "Parent Toolkit." This toolkit is a way for parents to learn more about the vaping epidemic, gauge their child’s risk of trying e-cigarettes, and find the best strategy for them to talk to their child about e-cigarettes.

Parenting in a Social Media Era

Presented by Shannon Schwandt, Centreville Elementary Dean of Students

In this presentation, we will discuss how social media affects kids and how parents can help them use it safely. We will cover ways to set rules, start open conversations, and teach kids to make good choices online. The goal is to give parents simple tips for helping their kids stay safe and healthy while using social media. 

From HS to College: What Parents Need to Know

Presented by Valerie Roe, Centreville Jr/Sr High School Counselor

Learn the details of classes, programs, and options available in high school to prepare for post-secondary life.

Playing at the Next Level

Presented by Jill Peterson, Centreville Jr/Sr High School Athletic Director

Learn about the options for student-athletes in sports after high school and what to expect from the recruiting process along the way.

Understanding Generative AI -- Artificial Intelligence
Presented by Becky Neff, Centreville High School English Teacher

As technology continues to evolve, this presentation is designed as an introduction for parents to generative AI. We’ll discuss the fundamentals, its implications for education, and how it is shaping the future of education. Parents will also begin the conversation around an action plan for Centreville Public’s Schools working AI policy. 

School Safety and Security: An Introduction to ALICE

Presented by Dennis Kirby, Centreville Elementary Principal

The goal of ALICE is to empower all individuals to make decisions for their own safety in the event of a violent critical incident (VCI) here at school.  

Special Education: Tips for School and Home

Presented by Meredith Spicer, Centreville Public Schools Special Education Director, and Alyssa Henneman, Centreville Elementary Special Education Teacher

A child with a Neurodivergent brain functions differently than what is considered "typical" development, meaning they may learn, think, and process information in a unique way compared to other children.

• Neurodivergent, What is It?
• Tips for supporting your Neurodivergent child at school and at home.

Supporting Mental Health

Presented by Terra Koenig, Centreville Public Schools School Based Therapist

During this presentation, we will dive into current data and trends as it relates to youth mental health in the post-covid era. Time will be spent discussing ways to support your child's healthy mindset, including, tips, tricks, and tools. We will wrap up our time by providing local and online mental health resources available for students and their families. 

The ABCs of SBG -- Standards-Based Grading

Presented by Becky Neff, High School English Teacher, and Kelsey Smith, Elementary Math Teacher

Standards-based grading has become a powerful tool to help students understand their academic progress. This presentation, however, is designed to support our students’ parents in their understanding of this shift in grading practices. Come to learn the core principles, how it differs from traditional grading systems, and how it focuses on student mastery of specific skills and concepts. We’re excited to show you how SBG provides clearer insights into your child’s growth and achievements!

The Pocket Powerhouse: How Cell Phones Affect Schools

Presented by Brenda Hiemstra, Centreville Jr/Sr High School Dean of Students

This discussion will bring forward the pros and cons of cell phones in schools. Our group will also discuss where the laws regarding cell phones are headed in schools.