Members of the Tennessee Department of Education’s Alternative Education Council identified restorative practices, trauma‑informed approaches and student mental health as top priorities for professional development to support alternative education programs.

Mamadou Keda said "I think that mental health piece, is gonna be very important" and recommended sessions on restorative practices and trauma‑informed practices that show alternatives to punitive models. Josiah added that shifting "the focus from the punitive mindset… to this is an intervention" is essential to change outcomes for students.

Other PD topics discussed included:
- Transportation options and responsibilities for students in DCS custody; Karen Ball Johnson recommended sessions on transportation for special populations and suggested DCS present its guidance.
- Modalities of instruction used by alternative learning centers (online, hybrid, traditional/classroom), with members asking for a survey item to capture trends and supports.
- Youth mental health first aid and staff wellness initiatives to support leaders and teachers.
- Breakout roundtables by program size and facilitated peer discussions to share promising practices.

Several members volunteered to present or organize panels. Watson said the NEP conference is the preferred venue if budget approval is granted; if not, the council will plan two virtual sessions. Funding for presenter travel and district reimbursements remains uncertain and will depend on budget approvals.

Next steps: Council members will be notified if the NEP conference is approved and which presenters are confirmed; DCS offered to provide a presentation on ESSA transportation provisions and regional fiscal support if the conference proceeds.