Paraprofessionals play a vital role in under-resourced schools, providing academic, emotional, and physical support to students. Beyond assisting teachers, they build trust, help regulate student emotions, and recognize trauma-related stress responses. By accommodating diverse learning styles, paraprofessionals help all students engage meaningfully with their curriculum. As liaisons between students, teachers, and families, they foster communication and advocacy, making schools more inclusive and supportive.

Building students’ confidence and self-worth in the classroom requires intentional language, inclusive practices, and trauma-informed support. Teachers play a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging by acknowledging each student’s unique background, celebrating cultural identity, and providing opportunities for growth through academics, peer connections, and extracurricular activities. By creating a safe, affirming environment, educators empower students to develop resilience, embrace their strengths, and navigate challenges with confidence.

Despite the increasing prevalence of childhood trauma, many graduate programs for teachers and school counselors still lack dedicated training on trauma-informed practices. This gap leaves new educators unprepared—not just to support students, but also to care for themselves. The stress of navigating challenging behaviors, managing a classroom, and forming meaningful connections with students can take a toll. Learn how incorporating Trauma-Informed Practices into pre-service graduate programs sets everyone up for success.

A trauma-informed organizational culture recognizes that people bring their whole selves to work. It prioritizes psychological safety, trust, and transparency, creating an environment where employees feel supported, valued, and empowered—which ultimately leads to better outcomes for both staff and the communities they serve.

We believe that every individual has a responsibility to challenge hate speech directly, and we aim to educate responsible community members on what to look for and how to respond effectively. This resource is designed to empower educators, school leaders, and community members to take actionable steps toward creating safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone.

The beginning of a new school year brings fresh faces and renewed energy to classrooms in the U.S. But for many educators, the return to school can also mark the onset of stress and overwhelm as they juggle ever-increasing responsibilities. Burnout among teachers has become a critical issue, with educators experiencing unprecedented levels of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion. NOW is the ideal time to address this, before the demands of the school year reach their peak.

Despite growing awareness, several myths persist about what trauma-informed education is and isn't. Let’s debunk some of these misconceptions with insights from experts, providing educators with a clearer understanding of what it means to implement trauma-informed practices in schools.