Dr. Kimberly Traverso is a highly regarded consultant and program manager for the State Department of Education, specializing in the critical areas of school discipline disparities, social-emotional development, and the enhancement of school counseling efficacy. With over a decade of experience in the field, Kim is particularly focused on the implementation of school-based universal assessments, the formulation of system coherence, and the application of implementation science to bolster educational outcomes.

She played a pivotal role as the lead for the federal School Climate Transformation Grant, where she developed initiatives aimed at improving the overall school climate across various districts. Additionally, she co-spearheaded the Statewide Behavioral Health Pilot, which aimed to integrate mental health services into school settings across the state. Her leadership skills are further reflected in her tenure as the past president of the Connecticut School Counselor Association (CSCA), where she advocated for the professional development of school counselors and the critical role they play in student success.

Recognized as a national presenter and author, Dr. Traverso has contributed to numerous conferences and publications, sharing her insights on effective behavioral interventions and inclusive practices. As the state coordinator for Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS), she demonstrates her commitment to eliminating exclusionary discipline practices, promoting a culture where all students feel valued and supported.

Her outstanding contributions to the field have been acknowledged with the CSCA Service Award, underscoring her dedication to creating equitable educational opportunities for all students. Dr. Traverso’s professional background includes diverse roles such as a teacher, school counselor, department head, and director of student support services, enriching her understanding of the educational landscape.

Deeply committed to fostering a positive and supportive educational environment, she holds a Ph.D. in counseling psychology from the University of Connecticut, coupled with an administration certification, enabling her to implement effective strategies that support both student and staff well-being.

.