Teaching, Learning, and Trauma, Grades 6-12: Responsive Practices for Holding Steady in Turbulent Times

Transform challenging classroom experiences into opportunities for lasting student-teacher relationships, professional growth, and student engagement 

Chronic stress, anxiety, and trauma have startling effects on teachers and students. The pandemic and distance learning have exacerbated behavior issues and emotional dysregulation, making it difficult for students to engage, learn, and maintain healthy self-esteem. 

In Teaching, Learning, and Trauma, the authors guide you through the process of creating a learning environment that combats the negative effects of chronic stress and trauma. They show you how to establish rituals and routines, develop personalization, and implement effective student engagement practices that create a relationship-based culture and effectively improve student achievement. This book includes:

• Self-assessment tools to help teachers make informed decisions
• Examples of self-care plans and schoolwide policies for maintaining healthy boundaries in and out of school
• Real-world vignettes and samples of teacher work
• Planning documents and reflection questions to guide educators in identifying strengths and growth areas

Using a synergistic approach, this book unites compelling research data, theories, stories, and best practices from trauma-informed schools, relationship-based psychology, and effective instructional design to dissolve obstacles caused by chronic stress and trauma.

Brooke O’Drobinak, MA, has been in secondary education for more than 25 years. Most recently, she has served in school administration for the past 13 years at a high-functioning, inner-city Denver high school. Her work is founded on the belief that students and relationships are at the heart of school communities. She also deeply values the critical roles that professional learning and leadership play in supporting all student learning. She currently provides consulting services for Diane Sweeney Consulting, Corwin, and the Public Education & Business Coalition. When she isn’t working with schools and districts, she enjoys being outdoors in Colorado with her husband and two sons.

Beth Kelley, MA, LPC, is a psychotherapist who worked as a school-based therapist for nearly 20 years. Additionally, she has worked in community mental health, in private practice, and as a clinical supervisor. Currently, Beth is a leadership coach and an educational consultant for schools interested in developing a more holistic school model. Beth is deeply committed to supporting mental wellness in school communities and businesses. When she isn’t working, she is hanging out with people she loves, laughing, creating, and chillin’.