School-Based Trauma Care Informed by Critical Race Perspective

School-Based Trauma Care Informed by Critical Race Theory: An Examination

In an effort to create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment, a growing number of educators are adopting trauma-informed curricula and critical race theory (CRT) to better understand and address the unique challenges faced by students.

Trauma-informed care, which aims to acknowledge and provide holistic support for marginalized groups who experience trauma at higher rates, can help reduce the negative impacts of traumatic stress on communities. This approach is not just about adopting practices, but about changing the policies of the education system to better serve students who have experienced trauma.

Critical race theory, an academic concept based on the principle that race is a social construct, closely examines the role of race and racism across modes of expression and education to understand systemic harm to marginalized communities. By incorporating CRT into trauma-informed teaching, educators may become more aware of how systemic racism may appear in classrooms, and how it can inform some of the traumatic experiences of youth in K-12 classrooms.

Research from 2019 demonstrates that programs incorporating critical race theory into trauma-informed teaching could help educators become more aware of the ways in which racism is embedded in society, including literature, media, U.S. legal systems, institutions, healthcare, and policies. This awareness can help educators foster positive relationships with their students and create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment.

Trauma-sensitive teaching through a critical race theory lens may also help address the disproportionate policing of Youth of Color within schools. Dr. Miguelina German, a pediatric psychologist, states that children who experience racism at school are at risk for poor self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and negative academic performance. By acknowledging and addressing the role of race and racism within their policies, school administrators and leaders can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for all students.

However, the debate over Critical Race Theory (CRT) in U.S. schools has been a contentious issue. The claim that systemic racism has historically shaped and continues to influence American society is opposed by some conservatives who see it as divisive. Following high-profile incidents like George Floyd's killing in 2020, CRT became a focal point of political controversy, leading to actions such as Florida Governor Ron DeSantis banning its teaching in public schools in 2022 to satisfy certain voter bases.

Despite the controversy, hundreds of educators and advocates continue to push for the implementation of trauma-informed care and critical race theory in schools. They argue that these approaches can help create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students, regardless of their race or background.

Educators may consider curriculums that offer a trauma-sensitive approach with a CRT component, but they must also continue to reassess how these programs are implemented in classrooms to ensure that they are effective and sensitive to the needs of all students. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows the stark reality of how racism and other forms of discrimination affect the mental well-being of young people, and it is up to educators to create a supportive and inclusive environment that responds to these needs.

Trauma-informed care in schools is not just for the students, but also for teachers, staff, families, and communities. By acknowledging and addressing the role of race and racism within their policies, schools can create a more supportive and inclusive environment for everyone.

In conclusion, trauma-informed care and critical race theory offer a new approach for schools to create a more supportive and inclusive learning environment for all students. By acknowledging and addressing the role of race and racism within their policies, schools can help reduce the negative impacts of traumatic stress on communities and create a more positive and supportive learning environment for all.