Equal attention to Learning Supports is essential so that:
- Every student will demonstrate academic achievement and be prepared for success after high school;
- Every student will be supported by highly prepared and effective teachers and school leaders; and
- Every school will offer a safe and healthy learning environment for all students.
Trauma
Childhood trauma is the experience of an event by a child that is emotionally painful or distressful which often results in lasting mental and physical effects.
- National Institute of Mental Health
A large number of Illinois students have experienced trauma. Situations that may be traumatic include: abuse, abandonment, death of a loved one, a serious accident, witnessing violence, being bullied, incarceration of a loved one, life-threatening situations, etc. Students who have experienced trauma may have behavioral or academic problems or their struggles may not be observable.
Schools need to provide a safe haven for these students and ensure that they have access to any additional supports they may need. This can be done through a Comprehensive System of Learning Supports that promotes the necessary conditions for learning and addresses any barriers to learning.
Articles
- NCTSN Age Related Reactions to a Traumatic Event
- NCTSN Psychological and Behavioral Impact of Trauma: Elementary School Students
- NCTSN Understanding Traumatic Stress in Adolescents
- OJJDP Trauma Informed Care for Children Exposed to Violence–Tips for Teachers
- Trauma Information for Teachers Pamphlet
Links
- Advice from the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, "Talking to Children about the Shooting"
- Child’s Trend Data on Children’s Exposure to Violence
- Helping Youth and Children Recover From Traumatic Events
- National Association of School Psychologists (NASP) Resources
- School Crisis Guide
- The National Child Traumatic Stress Network
- SAMHSA's Tips for Talking to Children and Youth After Traumatic Events: A Guide for Parents and Educators
- SAMHSA's Coping with Violence and Traumatic Events Web Site
