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Trauma-Informed/Trauma-Sensitive Schools

Contact(s)

"A trauma-sensitive school is a safe and respectful environment that enables student to build caring relationships with adults and peers, self-regulate their emotions and behaviors, and succeed academically, while supporting their physical health and well-being." - Trauma-Sensitive School Checklist

Protocols and Training Guidance Available

In 2018, the Iowa Legislature passed Senate File 2113 requiring protocols and school employee training relating to suicide prevention and postvention, identification of adverse childhood experiences, and strategies to mitigate toxic stress response. The requirements of Senate File 2113, Iowa Code 279.70 and Iowa Administrative Code 281-14.4 apply to all public school districts in Iowa. The school district’s board must require annual training by July 1, 2019. The trainings do not have to occur until after July 1, 2019, and must be provided annually. School districts have the authority to select the evidence-based, evidence-supported training that best meets the needs of their district.

Guidance for protocols and training for suicide prevention and postvention, adverse childhood experiences identification and strategies to mitigate toxic stress response

Resources and Information

Trauma-Sensitive School Learning Modules*

Review Tool for School Policies, Procedures, and Documents: Examination through a Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) Lens*

Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach – Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Trauma-Informed Approach and Trauma-Specific interventions

Trauma-Sensitive School Checklist

Using PBIS to Help Schools Become More Trauma-Sensitive*

Child Trauma Toolkit for Educators

Strategies and Resources to Create a Trauma-Sensitive School*

The Heart of Learning and Teaching: Compassion, Resiliency, and Academic Success

Trauma-Sensitive Schools Training Package

*Resources created by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.