Trauma-sensitive practice for system and school leaders
Resources for school and system leaders to increase understanding about building and/or sustaining trauma-sensitive practice.
Trauma-sensitive schools and districts
Trauma-sensitive school boards build upon the foundations of mentally healthy schools by supporting schools and staff to intentionally create predictable, welcoming and inclusive environments that promote healing, well-being and academic success.
Trauma-sensitive practice is not just a set of strategies, but a mindset. It supports educators and staff to consistently respond with calm, compassion and connection.
The resources below were designed to increase understanding related to the school and system leader’s role in building and/or sustaining trauma-sensitive practice.
Why school and system leaders?
System and school leaders have a critical role in championing trauma-sensitive practice. Leaders lay the foundation for mentally healthy schools and systems that allow trauma-sensitive practices to be consistent, equitable and effective for all.
Their leadership directly influences the conditions that shape student experience in classrooms. Leaders set the tone by prioritizing safety, belonging and well-being for staff and students, through their decisions, actions and communication. Leaders also model calm, regulated and relational responses.
These resources support school and system leaders in building trauma-sensitive practices that complement board and school mental health strategies and action plans.
For system leaders
System leaders can use the Trauma-Sensitive Practice Desk Reference to better equip them in building their knowledge to further support school leaders in leading trauma-sensitive schools.
For school leaders
Developed by principals and vice-principals, for principals and vice-principals, in collaboration with School Mental Health Ontario and Ontario’s three principal associations (Ontario Principals’ Council (OPC), Catholic Principals’ Council of Ontario (CPCO), and Association des directions et directions adjointes des écoles franco-ontariennes (ADFO), this resource is designed to support school leadership in implementing trauma-sensitive approaches within school communities.
The Guide for Trauma-Sensitive School Leaders can be used as an individual or team reflection tool. The accompanying PowerPoint presentation is intended to support professional learning and discussion with school staff.
The Trauma and Learning Policy Initiative
Downey, J., & Greco, J. (2023). Trauma sensitive schools: A comprehensive guide for the assessment planning and implementation of trauma informed frameworks. Children and Youth Services Review, 149(C). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.childyouth.2023.106944