Chris Walsh Center
For Educators And Families
AT FRAMINGHAM STATE UNIVERSITY
Upcoming Events
Coaching Neurodivergent Children and teens to Success
Emily Kircher Morris
Raising and educating neurodivergent young people often feels like coaching a team without a playbook: Every day brings new challenges, unexpected wins, and moments that test your patience and your heart. In this encouraging and practical presentation, Emily shares a framework to help support the development of five essential skills that neurodivergent kids need to navigate both school and life: self-advocacy, emotional regulation, executive functioning, communication, and motivation. With insights drawn from neuroscience, real-life stories, and her work with neurodivergent, gifted, and twice-exceptional learners, Emily helps families shift from crisis mode to connection, offering tools that grow confidence, not just in kids, but in the adults who support them.
Who is Emily Kircher Morris?
We are honored to welcome Emily Kircher-Morris, LPC, a nationally recognized speaker and a highly respected voice within the neurodivergent community. Emily is widely known for her work in advancing neurodiversity-affirming practices and for supporting educators, families, and clinicians in better understanding and serving neurodivergent individuals.
10/01/2026 at 7:00 - 8:30 PM ET
Online
Creating a Neurodiversity-Affirming School
.png)
What does it look like to support neurodivergent students in the classrooms and schools we have today? In this interactive training, EmilyKircher-Morris, LPC, helps educators move from awareness to practical action for autistic, ADHD, dyslexic, twice-exceptional, and other neurodivergent learners.
Using classroom scenarios and discussion, participants will examine how school expectations and practices can affect students’ sense of belonging, access to learning, and willingness to ask for support. They’ll explore ways to respond to sensory needs and look more closely at executive functioning challenges, such as task initiation, organization, and transitions. The metacognitive cycle offers a framework for helping students notice what is working, assess what they need, and build skills with appropriate support. Educators will leave with practical strategies and a starting point for creating schools where neurodivergent students can learn and participate as themselves.
You Don't Have To Navigate It Alone :Caregiver Support Groups Return This Fall
Sessions will be facilitated by Natalie McCollam, Neurodiversity-Affirming Mental Health Counselor, and are open to all caregivers of children with unmet needs. You do not need to attend every meeting—register for the series and join us for as many sessions as your schedule allows.
October19|November 9,16 & 30|December14|
6:00–7:00 p.m. Online
Fall Book Discussions At The Chris Walsh Center
The Chris Walsh Center for Educators and Families at Framingham State University is excited to continue our book discussion series this fall. These virtual conversations provide opportunities to learn, reflect, exchange ideas, and explore practical strategies for creating more inclusive and supportive communities.
By Caroline Maguire, PCC, M.Ed.
A practical, compassionate guide filled with strategies to help neurodivergent adults build confidence, strengthen social connections, and develop lasting friendships.
Nov 9 Discuss Part 1
Nov 16 Discuss Part 2
Nov 30 Discuss Chapter 12-15
Dec 14 Discuss Chapter 16-19
12:00–1:00 p.m. Online