Guest blog by Dr. Joe Bargione, Bounce Trainer & Core Leadership team member.

In Estill County Public Schools, resilience is more than just a buzzword—it’s part of the culture. 

Estill County Public Schools joined forces with Bounce in 2023, marking it as the fourth Kentucky school district to step up in addressing the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma through a comprehensive approach. With the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky’s support, this partnership transforms how schools support students and staff well-being.

The collaboration kicked off during the 2023-2024 school year, with Bounce bringing its expertise to West Irvine Elementary. From professional development for certified and classified staff to innovative parent and caregiver engagement activities, the goal was clear: to create a trauma-informed school where every student can thrive. One highlight includes hands-on training that equipped staff with de-escalation strategies rooted in trauma-informed practices. Along the way, surveys and student focus groups have provided valuable insights to guide the work.

The success at West Irvine set the stage for something bigger. As the 2024-2025 school year unfolds, Bounce has expanded its partnership across the district, teaming up with the District leadership team and Estill Springs Elementary School. Over the next two school years, Bounce will offer similar services, ensuring a cohesive and supportive approach to resilience-building. 

This isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about creating a sustainable, trauma-informed ecosystem that prepares students to graduate with academic skills and the resilience to tackle life’s challenges.

Estill County’s journey with Bounce is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when schools invest in the social-emotional well-being of their communities. Together, they’re proving that resilience starts with understanding—and grows through action.

Want to learn more about Bounce and how it’s making a difference in schools across Kentucky? Visit https://bouncecoalition.org/.

 

       

  1. Joe facilitated a work session with 32 educational champions made up of teachers, counselors, FYRSCs, nurses, assistant principals, principals and central office administrators with the Estill County Public Schools yesterday.  The goal of the work group was to develop multiple strategies to mitigate the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and build resiliency in students.  The students and families in Estill county are fortunate to have these dedicated professionals working to ensure students have what they need to become successful adults despite experiencing significant challenges growing up.
  2. Joe Bargione facilitated a de-escalation training for 32 staff at W. Irvine Elementary School yesterday.  There were 32 folks who attended. This is the 3rd in the series of training we have done at the school starting last school year to help educate students who have experienced Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma. The funding for the training is being provided by the Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky.
  3. November 25, 2024: Joe observing MTSS Team meeting at Estill Spring Elem.