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DSW Showcase Student Presentation

Joelisse Galarza

BA, MSW

The Hidden Barrier: How Adverse Childhood Experiences Affect Educational Outcomes and the Needs for Leadership Interventions

Concentration -

  • Monday, April 28, 2025 -
  • 10:30 am
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Abstract

Childhood and adolescent timeframes are pivotal years that significantly influence long-term growth and development. Students who have been exposed to adverse childhood experiences are at risk of chronic absenteeism and detriments to their academic achievement. This capstone project investigates the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on students in K-12 educational settings and the role of leadership interventions in cultivating resilience. Specifically utilizing resiliency theory and ecological systems theory, the study explores the importance of leadership practices in schools while overviewing how they impact academic outcomes and school engagement for students who have undergone adverse experiences. This presentation will focus on key findings from a systematic literature review, insights from theory, and practical interventions for school districts and educational leaders. Attendees will gain actionable strategies for the implementation of practices and promoting equitable support for students through a mental health lens. By integrating theory with practical leadership approaches, this capstone aims to inspire transformative leadership practices that alleviate the negative influences of ACEs while strengthening support for students in their academic achievement and overall wellbeing.

Biography

Joelisse Galarza, LCSW-S, is a graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word with a Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Social Work from Columbia University, and is a current Doctoral Candidate at the University of Kentucky’s School of Social Work. Joelisse currently serves as the Director of Mental Health and Social Emotional Learning at IDEA Public Schools, where they lead strategic initiatives to support student and family wellness, specifically focusing on social-emotional learning and mental health services. In addition, they are the Clinical Director at Purple Couch Therapy, a private practice, overseeing services for marginalized communities, practice policies, and clinical supervision of interns and associates.
As a doctoral candidate, Joelisse focuses her research on the intersections of adverse childhood experiences, academic attainment, and school engagement with a focal point on leadership interventions in mitigating the impacts of trauma on students and their educational outcomes. Their capstone project underlines the need for advocacy around leadership strategies within educational institutions. This includes enhancing student resiliency and wellbeing through equitable support for their success within their educational and lifelong journey.
Passionate about Social Work, Joelisse has received numerous awards such as Honorable Mention for Social Worker of the Year from the University of Texas School Social Worker Committee, a fellow under the CSWE’s Minority Fellowship program, Summa Cum Laude in both undergraduate and graduate level degrees and the Social Work Leadership Award from IDEA Public Schools.