The McMinnville School District (MSD) has committed to a year-long professional development focus on trauma informed learning environments. The effort kicks off with a staff workshop scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 19 from 4 –8 p.m. in the McMinnville High School auditorium.
The program incorporates the strategies outlined in “Fostering Resilient Learners: Strategies for Creating a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom” book authored by Kristin Souers and Pete Hall.
Souers will lead the first of four sessions that will help district staff develop a common language on trauma-informed practices; understand how stress can impact learning and the importance of creating a culture of safety; and learn strategies that support healthy development and also support adult health and growth.
“Educators have long understood that students learn best when they come to school ready to learn,” said Stephanie Legard, MSD director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment. “But the prevalence and effect of childhood trauma is just now starting to be recognized.
“We believe that understanding the adverse childhood experiences that can hinder a student’s ability to learn and learning strategies focused on how to help all students thrive will help us build the best possible learning environment for our students.”
Other workshops will be scheduled during in-service days in the coming year. To find out more, click here.
9/19/2018