Trauma, Voice, and Connection: Supporting Students and Families

Educators face unique challenges supporting students with disabilities and PTSD. This session unites teachers and researchers to explore trauma-informed practices, culturally responsive strategies, and family partnerships. Presenters highlight student voice, lived realities, and practical tools to build resilience, equity, and inclusive learning environments that strengthen teacher confidence.Participants will be able to: 1. Identify common challenges teachers face when supporting students with trauma or PTSD and recognize how these challenges affect instruction, behavior, and family engagement. 2. Apply trauma-informed and culturally responsive strategies, including amplifying student voice and fostering self-advocacy, to create inclusive and equitable classroom practices for CLD learners. 3. Demonstrate ways to respond effectively “in the moment” to student emotions while maintaining reflective practices and strengthening partnerships with families.