The International Parents Alliance (IPA) recently conducted an impactful teacher training session in Kazakhstan, focusing on parental engagement and trauma-conscious education.

Teacher Training in Kazakhstan: Strengthening Parental Engagement

At the invitation of Binom Schools, the International Parents Alliance (IPA) trainers traveled to Astana, Kazakhstan, for a comprehensive, week-long International Parents Alliance teacher training in late October. This training took place just after the Parent Summit, offering a timely opportunity to empower educators in the dynamically growing capital of Kazakhstan. The two IPA trainers worked closely with over a hundred teachers, equipping them with essential skills in parental engagement and trauma-conscious teaching.

The warm hospitality of the hosts, delicious Kazakh cuisine, and the famous Tashkent tea added a special touch to the International Parents Alliance teacher training experience, making this week an enjoyable and memorable one for all involved.

Modern Educational Needs and Innovative Training Techniques

Binom Schools, our hosting organization, represents a cutting-edge chain of schools that reflects the educational aspirations of this young and rapidly developing nation. With plans to open 500 new schools over the next decade, Kazakhstan is on a path to meet the high demand for education and highly trained teachers. The International Parents Alliance teacher training provided by IPA was tailored not only to enhance teachers’ understanding of parental engagement but also to deliver enjoyable and interactive teaching techniques adaptable to the classroom. Activities like role-play, gallery walks, and experiential learning exercises helped educators actively engage in hands-on learning, which they can later implement in their own classrooms.

In-Depth Focus on Parental Engagement and Trauma-Conscious Education

A central theme of the International Parents Alliance teacher training was evaluating and re-designing existing activities to foster more effective communication with parents. By reviewing their current practices and assessing which were less effective, teachers worked to create more participatory, impactful activities. Using IPA’s expertise in the difference between parental involvement and engagement, educators learned how to better structure programs that genuinely involve parents in their children’s learning journey.

Teachers also took time to reflect on their own views about parents’ roles, examining how these perceptions impact their ability to collaborate with families. This personal reflection included analyzing their own work, identity, and how these aspects influence their relationships with parents. Teachers gained new strategies for engaging parents in ways that promote a supportive learning environment.

Alongside these engagement strategies, the training introduced teachers to the fundamentals of trauma-conscious education. Given the challenging realities many students face, understanding brain science and trauma response is critical. Teachers received practical tools for calming and supporting traumatized children, learning how to approach and build trust with them.

Conflict Management: Practical Tools for the Classroom

Conflict management was another key area covered in the International Parents Alliance teacher training, blending theoretical insights with real-world practice. Participants explored ways to handle stress and anger—both in the classroom and when interacting with frustrated parents. Through discussions and role-play, teachers reflected on their personal coping strategies and explored practical ways to manage conflicts effectively. Teachers appreciated the value of these skills, recognizing how critical they are for fostering a harmonious classroom and building trust with parents.

Positive Outcomes and Future Collaboration with Binom Schools

Despite the intensive nature of the International Parents Alliance teacher training, feedback from participants was overwhelmingly positive, underscoring the success of the program. The enthusiasm and active participation of the teachers demonstrated a strong commitment to adopting these new approaches in their work. The International Parents Alliance trainers were highly satisfied with the results, and discussions are already underway to continue this collaboration with Binom Schools in 2025.

For those interested in exploring similar training opportunities, the International Parents Alliance offers a range of training programs designed for both parents and educators. These sessions provide valuable tools for enhancing parental engagement and creating trauma-conscious learning environments. Learn more about our IPA Training Offer for Parents and Educators.