Creating Positive Outcomes with Trauma-Sensitive Practices

This interactive workshop addresses the increasing prevalence of adverse childhood experiences and their impact on students' academic and behavioral outcomes. Educators are guided to understand how trauma affects the brain and body and how these effects manifest in the classroom. The session explores a range of strategies for building resilience and promoting protective factors that support student well-being. Participants also reflect on how trauma affects school climate and staff, and they learn practical tools to foster supportive, trauma-sensitive environments that promote success for all learners.

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• Increased adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and their disruptive effects on learning and behavior.
  
  
• Lack of understanding and tools among educators to support trauma-impacted students effectively.
  
  
• Negative school climates due to unaddressed trauma responses in both students and staff.

1. Identification and Response to Trauma in the Classroom
   Participants will develop the ability to recognize the signs of trauma in student behavior and understand how stress impacts brain function and learning, equipping them to respond with empathy and awareness.
   
   
2. Promoting Protective Factors and Resilience
   Educators will learn to strengthen protective factors such as close adult relationships, emotional regulation, and community support systems. They’ll also explore ways to embed these supports into daily instruction to promote student resilience.
   
   
3. Fostering a Trauma-Sensitive School Culture
   Participants will gain tools to build positive relationships with colleagues and students, implement mindfulness strategies, and create collaborative communication systems—establishing a school-wide culture that supports healing and academic achievement