Episode 48 - Dr. Gina Cherkowski: Voices From the Mental Heath Summit

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Episode:

48

guest episode

January 8, 2026

Dr. Gina Cherkowski: Voices From the Mental Heath Summit

Mental Health Education

Teacher Well-being

Human Flourishing & Education

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In this special episode of the Education Matters Podcast, host Jason Buccheri is joined by Mental Health Summit founder Dr. Gina Cherkowski to reflect on last year’s gathering and explore what’s ahead for the 2026 Mental Health Summit in Banff. Together, they share powerful insights from educators, leaders, and students on how schools can meaningfully support mental health, well-being, and belonging.

The conversation highlights the importance of caring for educators, fostering emotionally safe learning environments, and strengthening community connections. The episode also features an in-depth interview with keynote speaker Dr. Kimberly Schonert-Reichl, who unpacks the research behind social-emotional learning, stress contagion in classrooms, and why mental health must be a foundational part of education.

Register for the 2026 Mental Health summit here!

resources

CASEL

The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) is a global nonprofit that advances evidence-based social and emotional learning (SEL) in schools and communities. CASEL is best known for developing the widely used CASEL Framework, which outlines five core SEL competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. CASEL plays a central role in shaping SEL research, policy, and practice worldwide.

MindUP

MindUP is a research-informed social and emotional learning program that integrates neuroscience, mindfulness, positive psychology, and SEL practices. Originally developed in Canada, the program teaches students how their brains work, supports emotional regulation, and promotes empathy, gratitude, and kindness. MindUP also includes professional learning for educators, emphasizing adult well-being as foundational to student mental health.

Jack.org

Jack.org is a Canadian nonprofit focused on youth mental health advocacy and education. It empowers young people to lead conversations about mental health in schools, universities, and communities through peer-led programs, student chapters, and public awareness initiatives. Jack.org’s work centers on reducing stigma and increasing access to mental health literacy and support.

Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre

The Alberta Adolescent Recovery Centre (AARC) is a long-standing treatment program that supports adolescents struggling with substance use and addiction. The organization combines therapeutic intervention with education and family involvement, emphasizing belonging, connection, and long-term recovery. AARC’s work is frequently referenced in discussions about youth mental health, addiction, and early intervention.

UNESCO

UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) works globally to promote education, science, culture, and peace. In education, UNESCO emphasizes well-being, inclusion, and holistic development, aligning closely with conversations around mental health, social-emotional learning, and education for human flourishing.

OECD

The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) conducts international research and policy analysis on education systems, including student well-being, social-emotional skills, and future-ready competencies. The OECD’s work helps governments understand how education systems can better support mental health alongside academic achievement.

About The Guest

Dr. Gina Cherkowski

Dr. Gina Cherkowski is a learning scientist, researcher, and social justice advocate dedicated to advancing mental health, social-emotional learning (SEL), and belonging in schools and communities. She holds a PhD with a double cognate in Mathematics Education and Culture Studies, grounding her work in both scholarship and a deep understanding of diverse learning contexts. Gina’s recent work focuses on leading large-scale initiatives that strengthen mental health supports and embed SEL practices across schools, helping educators, students, and families thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. She is a member of CASEL’s International SEL Fellows Academy and is the founder of the Mental Health in Schools Summit Canada, inspiring change and advocating for support for teachers, students, families, and education leaders. With expertise in neurodiversity and learning science, Gina supports schools and organizations in designing inclusive learning experiences that equip all students with the skills, knowledge, and mindsets needed to thrive in today’s increasingly complex and digital world. Earlier in her career, she founded and led initiatives that expanded access to high-quality STEM education and built strong local and global professional communities. Today, Gina is recognized as a systems-change advocate, dedicated to creating school environments where every learner experiences well-being, connection, and success through a genuine sense of belonging.

additional information

To register for the 2026 Mental Health Summit click here!