Shelby Vissia

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Shelby Vissia

Advisor

Shelby Vissia, MSW, CSW is a passionate School Social Worker in the Rapid City Area School District. She has worked at General Beadle Elementary School for the past 4 years, supporting students’ social, emotional, and behavioral growth. 3 years ago, Shelby assisted in the development and implementation of a Peer Leadership group – fostering connections and healthy relationships among the 4th and 5th grade classes.

Outside of work, Shelby enjoys traveling, exploring nature, reading, and painting. She also cherishes spending time with friends and family – taking Side by Side rides through the Black Hills, playing card games, and (most importantly) laughing.

Connecting with people can be difficult, but Networks of Support makes it easier. It allows for a safe, positive, happy environment for students and staff to let their walls down – even if it’s brick by brick. Throughout my Peer Leadership group, I’ve witnessed students identify trusted adults, reflect on healthy friendships, form connections, and ASK for help.

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Outcomes:

Groups became increasingly unified, exhibiting a shared commitment to healthy norms, and actively encouraged peers in help-seeking behaviors, fostering a supportive environment where every member feels valued and understood.
Social Network Health's interactive training fostered an even more dynamic relationship network. Within these groups, vulnerable members can draw strength from adaptive members, leading to more changes in who they identify as valued connections.
Schools have reported significant improvements in various metrics, including increased daily attendance, higher graduation rates, enhanced identification of Trusted Adults, greater willingness to seek help, and improved connectedness among students and staff. Additionally, school disciplinary issues have notably declined, reflecting the program's positive impact on the school climate and student well-being.

Network Enhancing Facilitation Strategies

Creating an environment for collaborative learning to develop protective strengths and networks through:
  • Peer to Peer Learning
  • Personal Meaningfulness
  • Active and distributed Format
  • Authentic Connection

From Individual To Group Focus

  • Moving from a focus of individual skills to recognizing and developing group strengths.
  • Reflecting on how group strengths benefit individuals and the group.
  • Extending these benefits to the larger group.
  • Supports formation of key relationship and culture Intentional scaffolding.