How Trauma Affects Learning—and What You Can Do About It: Creating a Trauma-Sensitive Classroom with Social Worker Kimberly Mackey

Trauma can significantly impact a student's ability to learn, and there may be more students in your classroom who have experienced trauma than you realize. Understanding trauma is crucial for fostering a supportive learning environment where all students can thrive.

In this episode of The Balanced Educator Podcast, we’re joined by Kimberly Mackey, a seasoned School Social Worker and certified Trauma Practitioner with Starr Commonwealth. Kimberly is a passionate advocate for the role of social work in supporting students and staff and for creating trauma-sensitive schools. She’ll share practical strategies to help you build a trauma-sensitive classroom—whether you teach elementary students or high schoolers.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

- What trauma is and why understanding it is essential for teachers.

- How trauma-sensitive teaching supports all students and promotes equity.

- Concrete, actionable strategies to create a trauma-sensitive classroom for both elementary and high school students.

- Recommended resources for teachers who want to deepen their understanding of trauma and its impact on learning.

By implementing trauma-sensitive strategies, you’ll not only help your students cope with past experiences but also equip them with skills for overcoming challenges in their future.