Lesson Plan

Trauma-Smart Teaching

Equip high school teachers with core trauma-informed care principles and practical strategies to identify and support students affected by trauma, culminating in a brief, actionable classroom plan.

High school students often experience trauma that impacts learning and behavior. By understanding trauma-informed care, teachers can create safer, more supportive environments, reduce re-traumatization, and promote student resilience and academic success.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Preparation

15 minutes

Step 1

Introduction

5 minutes

Step 2

Presentation on Trauma-Informed Care

10 minutes

Step 3

Reading and Reflection

10 minutes

Step 4

Group Discussion

10 minutes

Step 5

Activity: Trauma-Safe Classroom Planning

10 minutes

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Slide Deck

Trauma-Smart Teaching

Welcome participants. Briefly introduce yourself and explain the session purpose: to equip teachers with trauma-informed care principles and practical strategies. Emphasize confidentiality and respectful sharing.

Session Agenda

Walk through the agenda: Introduction, Core Principles, Reading & Reflection, Group Discussion, Classroom Planning. Keep each section on time.

Session Objectives

Share the three session objectives. Ask participants to note one personal goal for the session.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

Define trauma and highlight its impact on learning. Stress that trauma responses often look like behavior issues.

Core Principles

Describe each principle with an example: e.g., Safe space when a student steps out to calm down.

Recognizing Trauma Responses

Share two brief adolescent examples (e.g., sudden anger outbursts, withdrawal in class). Invite a couple of participants to share observations.

Group Discussion

Explain small-group setup. Ensure each group has the handout and chart paper or digital board.

Classroom Planning Activity

Introduce the planning guide. Circulate to assist pairs in refining ideas.

Next Steps & Resources

Wrap up by summarizing key takeaways. Point to additional resources and encourage follow-up.

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Script

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Worksheet

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Reading

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Discussion

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Activity

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Trauma-Smart Teaching

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Shayla Chandler

Tier 2
For Schools
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