Message from the APA TOPSS chair

Happy Thanksgiving to all TOPSS members,

We are happy to announce the 2026 TOPSS committee election results. Michael Berndt, MEd, of Apollo High School in St. Cloud, Minnesota, was elected chair-elect; Angela Scavone of Oconomowoc High School in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, was elected member-at-large (early career slate), and Annette Nielsen, MS, of Woods Cross High School in Woods Cross, Utah, was elected member-at-large (open slate). Congratulations to Michael, Angela, and Annette!  Each will start a three-year term of office on January 1, 2027. We are so thankful for the excellent candidates who ran for office this year and everyone who voted.

The deadline for the fall APF High School Psychology Outreach Grants has been extended through November 20 to accommodate busy teaching responsibilities. These funds are designed to support local teachers in establishing or supporting regional networks for high school teachers of psychology. If you need assistance getting started, check out our revised Building, Guiding, and Sustaining Regional Networks (PDF, 108KB)opens in new window how-to guide. Funds are open to new or established networks. Please contact Emily Leary Chesnes with questions.

We still have funding for applications to host local career events for students! If you still have an interest in hosting an in-person career event at your school, please consider applying. This is a great way to engage your students by welcoming psychology professors and professionals in the field of psychology to your campus. You can apply to receive $300 for support with event expenses. Applications must be received by mid-December, but your planned event can take place any time through spring 2027.  Additional information can be found on the initiative website.

• Don’t forget to peruse the redesigned TOPSS website featuring easy accessibility sections such as a searchable database of teacher funding opportunities, unit lesson plans, and instructional support resources. 
• ’Tis the season to show some gratitude: give the Gratitude Questionnaire Activity (PDF, 55KB)opens in new window a try!
• Looking for a great way to highlight the psychological perspectives? Try our Using Psychological Perspectives to Change Habits Activity (PDF, 496KB)opens in new window to increase engagement!

Please contact me with any questions, suggestions, or concerns you may have. Thank you for being part of the TOPSS community.

Sincerely, 

Kari Hall, MA 
Williston High School 
Williston, North Dakota 
2026 TOPSS Chair