Educational Role of Focus: Licensed Colleagues/Teachers (e.g. SPED and/or Gen. Ed)

Description of Role

Licensed teachers are instrumental to the success of trauma-informed schools because they are the ones who spend the most time with students and have the greatest impact on their daily lives. Teachers play a key role in creating a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel respected, valued, and understood. They can also help students to develop coping skills and resilience in the face of adversity.

Success in Engaging Teachers

Success in engaging teachers in trauma-informed schools looks like:

• Teachers having a strong understanding of the impact of trauma on student learning and behavior.
• Teachers feeling confident in their ability to identify and respond to the needs of traumatized students.
• Teachers being committed to creating a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

What Teachers Should Know, Believe, and Practice

Teachers should know that:

• Trauma is a common experience that can have a significant impact on student learning and behavior.
• The effects of trauma can be seen in a wide range of behaviors, including academic difficulties, emotional outbursts, and withdrawn behavior.
• There are effective strategies that teachers can use to support traumatized students.

Teachers should believe that:

• All students can learn and succeed, regardless of their past experiences.
• Students who have experienced trauma need extra support and understanding.
• Teachers can make a positive difference in the lives of traumatized students.

Teachers should practice:

• Creating a safe and supportive learning environment where students feel respected, valued, and understood.
• Using trauma-informed instructional strategies that are sensitive to the needs of traumatized students.
• Collaborating with other professionals to provide comprehensive support to traumatized students.

SMART Goals for Teachers

• Goal 1: By the end of the school year, 80% of teachers will be able to accurately define the term “trauma” and identify at least three common signs and symptoms of trauma in students.
• Goal 2: By the end of the school year, 60% of teachers will be able to implement at least two trauma-informed instructional strategies in their classrooms.

Positive Behavioral Support Approach to Stakeholder Collaboration and Engagement

A positive behavioral support approach to stakeholder collaboration and engagement in a successful trauma-informed school would involve:

• Providing teachers with high-quality professional development on trauma-informed care.
• Creating opportunities for teachers to share their experiences and best practices with each other.
• Providing teachers with ongoing support and coaching as they implement trauma-informed practices in their classrooms.
• Recognizing and celebrating teachers’ efforts to create a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.

By taking these steps, schools can create a culture of support where teachers feel confident in their ability to meet the needs of all students, including those who have experienced trauma.