Allison Nelson
Educational Adviser for Trauma Informed Communities
Areas of Specialty
- Teacher Coaching and Development
- Trauma-Informed Schools
Contact
Facts
I am a recovering vegetarian with a baking addiction. There are always at least 8 sticks of butter in my fridge, and I have an entire cupboard devoted to sprinkles.
I'm a 1w2 on the Enneagram. I am passionate about equity and about spurring systemic change.
I love to travel. I have been to 15 countries on 4 continents, and I'm not finished yet.
“The child must know that he is a miracle, that since the beginning of the world there hasn't been, and until the end of the world there will not be, another child like him." – Pablo Casals.
Profile
My passion for trauma-informed schools comes not only from my love for children, but also from my deep respect and empathy for educators. I am motivated by a desire to support all children, while also helping to increase educators’ effectiveness and their love for teaching. I have provided professional development and coaching services for hundreds of schools across the state of Michigan and beyond.
I am an adoptive and biological parent; a competitive runner; a voracious reader; and a coffee enthusiast. I am an introvert; married to an extrovert; and mom to three of the loudest, most energetic children on this planet. If I had two wishes, I would provide every child with a champion and every champion with a nap.
Education
University of Michigan, Masters of Public Administration, Educational Administration
2013-2015
Colorado Christian University, Elementary Education
2008-2009
Hope College, Bachelor of Arts, Religion, Psychology and English
2003-2006
Experience
I am a certified teacher and have been in the field of education for 15 years. I have taught students from preschool to high school, and in settings ranging from daycare centers to residential treatment facilities. I have spent the majority of my time teaching and leading in the public school system. I have a Master’s degree in Educational Administration, and I am a Certified Trauma Practitioner in Education as well as a Community Champion with the Michigan ACE Initiative. I am trained in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention and in Restorative Practices. My role as Educational Advisor allows me to come alongside schools and community organizations to them build capacity and take their next steps toward becoming more trauma-informed.