Alison Beanblossom
M.A.
Alison Beanblossom, LCSW, earned her master’s degree from the University of Chicago in 2003 and has over 20 years of experience as a school social worker. She is currently the Early Childhood Mental Health and Wellness Manager at Portland Public Schools in Portland, Oregon, where she supports educators, students, and families in fostering social-emotional well-being. Throughout her career, she has held multiple roles in Head Start, including Home Visitor, Program Manager, and Mental Health Consultant, giving her a deep understanding of early childhood development and family engagement. In addition, she serves as an adjunct professor at Portland State University, contributing to the development of future professionals in the field.
Offered Courses
TEACHING THROUGH CURIOSITY: Bridging Divides in Education
Course No. ED482C, ED582C
In today’s increasingly polarized educational landscape, curiosity is a powerful tool for connection and understanding. This course invites educators to explore how fostering curiosity can transform classroom dynamics, strengthen relationships, and build inclusive school cultures.
Grounded in the work of Mónica Guzmán and her book I Never Thought of It That Way, this course equips participants with practical strategies to:
Listen deeply and engage across differences
Model and facilitate respectful, open conversations
Navigate challenging dynamics with students, colleagues, and families
Through reflection, practice, and application, educators will gain tools to bridge divides, foster civil discourse, and create more compassionate, connected learning environments. This course is designed for PK–12 teachers, counselors, instructional coaches, and school leaders seeking to strengthen their impact and cultivate inclusive communities.
CREATING INCLUSIVE CLASSROOMS: Setting Yourself up for Success
Course No. ED481o, ED581o
This self-paced online course explores best practices for fostering inclusion, equity, and effective classroom management in early childhood and K-12 education. Through readings, videos, podcasts, and reflection-based assignments, participants will deepen their understanding of how to create calm, supportive, and inclusive spaces for all learners.
Key Learning Areas:
✅ Understanding Inclusion & Equity – Defining inclusive education and reflecting on personal beliefs and practices.
✅ Building a Culture of Belonging – Strategies for fostering student connection, equity, and care.
✅ Behavioral Supports & Responsive Relationships – Approaching challenging behaviors through relationships and culturally responsive strategies.
✅ Classroom Environment & Visual Supports – Designing physical spaces and routines that promote student independence and regulation.
✅ Teaching Behavioral Expectations – Using visuals, routines, and reinforcement strategies to maintain a structured classroom.
✅ Transitions & Daily Routines – Developing smooth, engaging transitions to support student regulation.
✅ Social-Emotional Learning & Peer Interactions – Encouraging collaboration, empathy, and social skill development.
✅ Advocacy & Equity in Education – Addressing systemic barriers and developing small-scale advocacy efforts to support marginalized students.
