11-6-15 paper tigers

Comprehensive Services Integration (CSI), Fond du Lac Boys and Girls Club, Marian University and the Fond du Lac School District are hosting a screening of Paper Tigers, a film that captures the pain, danger, beauty and hopes of struggling teens—and the teachers armed with new science and fresh approaches that are changing lives for the better. The documentary film will be screened on Monday, November 16 from 6:30-9:00 p.m. at Goodrich Little Theater and is open to the public.  Paper Tigers follows a year in the life of the alternative Lincoln high school in Walla Walla, WA, that has radically changed its approach to disciplining its students, and in the process has become a promising model for how to break the cycles of poverty, violence and disease that affect families. The film examines the inspiring promise of Trauma-Informed Communities – a movement that is showing great potential in healing youth struggling with the dark legacy of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs). Following six students over the course of a school year, we see Lincoln’s staff try a new approach to discipline: one based on understanding and treatment rather than judgment and suspension.  “We appreciate the opportunity to share Paper Tigers with the local community and audiences who care deeply about improving outcomes for future generations,” says Marian Sheridan, Coordinator of School Health and Safety Programs of the Fond du Lac School District.  “Learning more about trauma-informed care and brain development will assist our children in becoming successful adults. This includes strategies for preventing and de-escalating problem behavior and learning more about ACEs.”   The goal of hosting this screening is to bring awareness of trauma-informed educational strategies to our community.  CSI is a collaboration of families, schools and community working together to support children as they grow. Many things, like positive relationships, family connections and environment affect children’s well-being.  Meeting their physical, social and emotional needs now will result in healthy adults and a safe community for everyone.  A panel of local experts to and community members will give a post-screening talk back on healing trauma in the school setting. Panel members will include: Dr. Matt Doll, psychologist of Doll & Associates, Patricia Lancour, Director of Fond du Lac County Department of Social Services, Jim Knowlton, Fond du Lac School District teacher, and Kristina Meilahn of the Fond du Lac Police Department.