Love Languages in Schools: Strengthening Connection to Strengthen Learning
February 24, 2026 @ 8:30 am - 3:00 pm EST
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Time: 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM (Registration begins at 8:30 AM) Lunch Provided
Location: CVES Conference Center at 1443 Military Turnpike, Plattsburgh
Cost: $215 per person for billed through 506 School Improvement Co-Ser
Presenter: Melissa Dudyak, CVES Facilitator and Danielle Janisewski, CVES Facilitator
Description: Every child expresses and receives love in unique ways- and understanding these emotional “languages” can transform classroom culture, student behavior, and academic engagement. Based on the book The 5 Love Languages of Children by Dr. Gary Chapman and Dr. Ross. The training is grounded in neuroscience and behavioral psychology, and focuses on strengthening student–teacher relationships as a lever to improve behavior, engagement, and academic outcomes. Participants will learn how to identify each child’s primary “love language” — the way each student best receives affirmation, connection, and support — and how to translate those languages into daily classroom practices that are developmentally appropriate for PreK–12. The session breaks down the 5 Love Languages (Words of Affirmation, Acts of Service, Gifts, Quality Time, and Physical Touch) and provides safe, clear, school-appropriate strategies for each. Teachers and staff will walk away with: an understanding of how to build relational trust proactively classroom routines that prevent dysregulation and behavior escalation simple, practical strategies to strengthen student belonging tools to differentiate connection (just like we differentiate instruction) The day includes content learning, small-group discussion, practice scenarios, and a “Connection Action Plan,” where every participant designs direct strategies they can implement immediately to better support specific students in their care. This PD supports trauma-informed schools, social-emotional learning, Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), restorative practices, and positive school climate initiatives. It directly supports improved behavior, fewer power struggles, and increased student buy-in — which results in more time for teaching and learning.
Intended For: K-12 Teachers, Teaching Assistants, and Administrators
Registration Link: 2025 – 2026 S3 Professional Development