Fostering Relationships for Student Motivation, Well-Being, and a Positive School Climate

About the Presenters

Sara White, Director of Teacher Development at Minnetonka Public Schools, is an expert in leadership development, technology integration, and curriculum design. She developed an innovative teacher evaluation model and revamped the district’s PLC model to enhance continuous learning and social-emotional growth. Sara initiated the Minnetonka Teaching and Learning Framework and led the district’s innovation efforts, promoting visionary programming. Previously, she was a middle school language arts teacher and instructional coach.

Sara holds an Ed.S. in curriculum and instruction from Capella University, a principal license from the University of St. Thomas, an M.A. in education from Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, and a B.A. in English and psychology from Luther College. She is Dare to Lead™ certified and has held various volunteer roles, including President of the MN-ASCD Board of Directors. Currently, Sara collaborates with Search Institute to help teachers build developmental relationships with students.

As Senior Director of Solutions, Monica Dixon manages the development of Search Institute’s resources, tools, and professional learning experiences, aimed at empowering organizations to implement meaningful changes to support youth thriving. Previously, Monica managed the Equity-based Multi-Tiered System of Support at SWIFT Education Center. Her passion for youth development began over two decades ago in an out-of-school program, leading her to a 17-year career as a high school social studies teacher. She worked in a large urban district, focusing on closing gaps for marginalized students in AP and honors courses. Monica holds a B.S. in education and an M.S. in secondary education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, and an Ed.S. in K-12 superintendency from Northwest Missouri State University. She emphasizes listening, learning, and systems thinking to foster a sense of belonging for youth.

Dr. Brooke Rice leads the charge for increasing equity and access to high-quality work-based learning and career-connected curricula for high school students across the country as the Vice President of Curriculum and Work-Based Learning at NAF. Throughout her career, she has worked at the local, state, and national levels to create resources, provide training, and implement programs to help students achieve their career goals and connect them to businesses that are looking for innovative ways to skill their future talent pipeline.

Dr. Benjamin Houltberg, a developmental scientist and experienced therapist, has led Search Institute as President and CEO since 2021. He is committed to youth development and amplifying marginalized voices. He believes in leveraging innovation to bridge the gap between science and practice, providing high-quality tools for practitioners to help young people thrive. Widely published on adolescent competencies and resilience, his unique perspective combines research and practice, having led research teams and consulted on creating thriving cultures. He has served in various counseling roles and held academic positions at Purdue University–Fort Wayne, Fuller School of Psychology, and the University of Southern California, where he advises on data-informed approaches in athletics. A former NCAA Division I athlete, he holds a Ph.D. in human development and family studies and an M.A. in marriage and family therapy/counseling.