Classified Connection, professional development hosted and executed by the Oregon Trail Regional Educator Network (REN) gathered for its second training of the year on November 12, 2025. The event drew 23 participants from the Pendleton, North Powder, Stanfield and Umatilla School Districts. This school year, the REN will host five Classified Connection events across the region.  

The November 12th training featured IMESD School Psychologist, Liz Durant. Durant presented on strategies for success when managing explosive student behaviors. Durant helped participants understand the root causes of explosive behavior, presented proactive strategies to prevent escalation, and detailed evidence-based techniques to support de-escalation. Paraprofessional staff walked away with tangible strategies to implement when navigating difficult situations with dysregulated students. 

Classified Connection gatherings are designed to provide training tailored to the unique needs of paraprofessionals as they support students to learn and grow in supportive, safe, and engaging learning environments. 

Classified Connection trainings occur from 5-7 pm at local restaurants equipped with private space to feature speakers or view presentations, and content focuses are determined based on participant request and feedback. 

For more information about Classified Connection or other IMESD/REN hosted professional development, please contact Emily Williams at emily.williams@imesd.k12.or.us.