Anne Hipskind, Founder
Drawing on nearly 30 years of experience as a social worker and educator working with students and school staff, I lead youth and adults to explore the roots of social-emotional wellness. I offer young people and adults who support them an opportunity to increase individual agency through academic SEL frameworks like self-efficacy, self-management, and social awareness. I also weave into my work with educators the relational themes of compassion, gratitude, self-compassion, and equanimity. I utilize the principles of mindfulness and restorative practices to ensure equitable environments and safe, inclusive communities. I am passionate about supporting communities to shift away from paradigms of scarcity and isolation to identify internal resilience factors and unique traits that can help them thrive together.
Shyla Batliwalla
With over a decade of experience as an educator, I believe a holistic focus on individual wellness is critical to creating a thriving school community. My background is a combination of my work as an elementary school teacher, mindfulness coach, and student of mental health. I utilize my commitment to equity and inclusion and my skills as a practitioner of mindfulness, to hold space for meaningful conversations. My intention is to empower individuals to engage in the enduring work of self-awareness to help create deeper connections within ourselves and our community.
Alejandro Vilchez
Alejandro Vilchez is Principal of AV Consulting, an independent consulting firm based in Silicon Valley focusing on Training, Consultation, and Community Engagement. He is a seasoned and recognized leader in the field of violence prevention, youth development, and team building. He is a highly sought facilitator, trainer, and public speaker with the ability to capture audiences in a fun yet focused manner, both in English and Spanish. Over two decades he has served in multiple roles as a direct service provider; grant writer, community liaison, program director, and school administrator. He developed the Strengthening Neighborhoods Program in 2004 that is now a model for law enforcement and marginalized communities working together to reduce street violence and blight.
Jessica Boots
I am a leadership and wellness coach, the founder of Lead and Be Well, an experienced educator, a facilitator, a yoga teacher, and mama. Combining almost two decades of teaching, leading, and supporting schools with 400+ hours of yoga training, I provide opportunities to improve holistic wellness and sustainability for school communities. My intention is to create inclusive and equitable spaces that contribute to healing, learning, and growth for the adults on campus, knowing that when we take care of ourselves, we are better equipped to care for our students and each other.