The school community is filled with powerful members. Teachers have the influence to guide students through their own experience and knowledge. Having a background education of trauma, educational leaders can see students in a compassionate perspective. Teachers must show up in a loving way to create a safe space for students in which to thrive.
The essential theme underlying this series is highlighted right in the podcast’s subtitle: a whole community approach. That means, to effectively identify and lessen the impact of student trauma requires mental health practitioners, faculty members, parents, and community members to work together. Brooke O’Drobinak, an administrator, teacher, and instructional coach, and Beth Kelley, a trauma informed consultant and conscious leadership coach offer a number of powerful ideas on how educators — without extensive training — can contribute to reducing the effects of trauma. That awareness and effort can in turn give educators greater confidence that they can have the desired impact.