Trauma-informed schools
Program basics
- School-wide reform that seeks to change culture into a learning environment that is safer, more supportive, and more trauma-informed
- Programs generally include training for school staff to ensure they have the information and skills needed to assist children who have experienced trauma
- Generally include revisions to disciplinary policy, social-emotional instruction, and culturally adapted curriculum about trauma
- Often include parent education and engagement and community partnerships to support students
Strength of evidence
Evidence level: Strong (second-highest tier)
?
Strong (second-highest tier)
Ranked as having the second-highest level of evidence by County Health Rankings and Roadmaps
Target population
All school-aged children
Program cost
Not available
Implementation locations
- Nationwide
Dates active
Not available
Outcomes and impact
- Some evidence that trauma-informed schools increase understanding of trauma and frequency of trauma-informed practice use among school staff
- School-wide interventions may improve student resilience, coping skills, ability to pay attention in class, and attendance
- Interventions are associated with improved graduation rates, academic achievement, classroom behavior, and student safety
Keys to successful implementation
- Note: This content is under review
- Schools characterized by strong relationships between school staff and mental health professionals and clear commitments to changing school culture appear to have greater success.
- Trauma-informed practices should be culturally sensitive and introduced carefully to build teacher buy-in.
- Expanding the role of school counselors can support successful school-wide implementation.
- Information and training provided to all levels of staff will help them recognize behaviors that may be reactions to trauma and understand how to best assist students.
