August 21, 2026 – WPDI was honored to present the action of its Domestic Harmonizer Program (DHP) at the 2026 MTSS Integrated Conference in Wenatchee, Washington, this summer. Centered around the theme “Aligning for Impact: Inclusive Systems That Work,” the conference welcomed more than 700 educators, administrators, counselors, specialists, and support professionals who gathered to explore innovative ways to create learning environments where every student can thrive.
Through interactive workshops, peer mediation training, restorative practice support, and innovative tools from our Domestic Harmonizer Virtual Center, the program based in Los Angeles, California, helps entire school communities develop the skills to resolve conflict constructively.
With more than 100 speakers sharing research, practical strategies, and inspiring stories, the 2026 MTSS Integrated Conference highlighted the importance of supporting students with diverse learning styles while strengthening positive, inclusive school communities.
WPDI was invited to present at the conference by its partner, North Central Education Support District (NCESD), in Washington State. Our session introduced Inner Spark, an innovative component of our Domestic Harmonizer Program that empowers high school students to become peer-to-peer leaders through Transformative Social-Emotional Learning (T-SEL). Rather than placing the entire responsibility for school culture on adults, Inner Spark invites students to become active partners in creating safe, welcoming, and emotionally healthy learning communities.
Grounded in cognitive science, the program equips students with leadership skills, practical stress-management techniques, and a deeper understanding of emotions while clearly defining the boundaries of peer support. Student leaders learn how to model empathy, foster belonging, encourage healthy relationships, and recognize when a classmate needs support from a trusted adult. By equipping young people to positively influence one another, schools cultivate a culture where kindness, resilience, and emotional well-being spread naturally through peer relationships.
During the session, participants learned about several cognitive and somatic practices that strengthen self-awareness, connection, emotional regulation, and resilience: tools that students can immediately apply in their own lives and share with their peers. Educators also explored how a peer-to-peer leadership model can complement existing MTSS frameworks by engaging students as contributors to school climate rather than simply recipients of support.
DHP Trainer, Karen DeVoogd, commented: “This was an important conference and an inspiring start to the school year. The enthusiasm, thoughtful conversations, and shared commitment to supporting young people remind us that lasting change happens when schools empower students to become leaders alongside caring adults.”
We are grateful to the conference organizers, our partner NCESD, and everyone who attended our session. Events like the MTSS Integrated Conference provide valuable opportunities to share promising practices, learn from educators and practitioners across the country, and build connections with others committed to student well-being. We believe in every effort that helps young people discover their inner spark and contribute to creating stronger, more supportive school communities.