Sixteen local educators from partner GEAR UP schools recently participated in Ruby Payne’s Emotional Poverty train the trainer certification event held at Eastern Oklahoma State College in Wilburton, OK. The program provides tools for educators to address and reduce anger, anxiety, and avoidance along with how to manage the “classroom dance” that occurs between the educator and the students.

Over her distinguished career, Payne has worked as a teacher and principal, written K–12 curricula in all subject areas, and assisted in strategic planning and staff development programs for multiple organizations. Her work guides educators and community leaders through her extensive library of resources. She aims to equip everyone she meets with the tools to write a future story full of hope.

Payne’s company, aha! Process is an award-winning training and publishing company providing workshops, publications, and consulting services to help improve lives and build sustainable success.

The event was sponsored by Eastern Oklahoma State College’s GEAR UP program. Eastern Oklahoma State College received a $17 million federal GEAR UP grant in 2017 and will serve more than 3,000 students in 39 area schools for seven years. Follow us on Facebook to learn more about our events and programs.