1. The kindergartner who has never met their birth mother.
He might not be sure why an adult female is taking interest in his well being. As this creates a difficulty for building a great teacher-student relationship, his learning may fall by the wayside.
2. The 2nd grader who sleeps only four hours a night.
Since her mother had a baby two months ago, she now shares a room with her newborn sibling and is responsible for taking care of them throughout the night. In the classroom, they may be falling asleep or exhibiting unwanted behaviors throughout the day.
3. The 4th grader whose parents are constantly fighting.
This student may be uncomfortable around loud noises or conflict because of how common it is in their home. Because of this, their classmate dropping a book on their desk can create a reminder of their life at home rather than a reminder of what they've studied.
4. The 6th grader who has already attended five different elementary schools.
After moving from foster home to foster home, this student has not yet been at the same school for more than a year and half. He most likely won't be interested in creating any friendships with classmates or trust for his teachers, because his experiences are that he will soon be moving again.
5. The 8th grader whose father just died from a gunshot wound a month ago.
She was sitting in the front yard enjoying the day with her family when her biggest supporter was killed in front of her. She may have no clue where to find resources, or have time to receive the help she may need. Soon she may become disengaged in the classroom and potentially lead to her dropping out.
6. The 10th grader who was sexually abused the weekend before.
He was at his friend's house playing video games when he suddenly lost trust within his closest friends. Throughout the school day, he may no longer be interested in the friendships he once had. Rather than focusing on completing his work, he is now focused on staying safe at home and at school.
7. The 12th grader whose family was evicted last week.
She's now living in a hotel room with her mother, stepfather, brother and sister. She is sleeping on the floor and no longer has her own room, let alone her own bed. Her attendance may decrease as she is more focused on helping her family make the money to move back into their house. At this pivotal point in her education, having the support of one adult can help stop the cycle of poverty.
8. Lastly, each and every student that walks into our classroom, who will have the opportunity to support someone who has experienced trauma at some point in their life.
No matter what career they may follow in their future, the size of their family, or the community they choose to live in, these students will one day have the opportunity to support someone who has been involved in a traumatic experience. We have always expected our students to graduate with an understanding of how a plant develops and rebuilds itself once damaged. It is time that we allow our teachers and students to have that same understanding about us as people.
