Counseling In Schools aims to focus on the well-being we strive for when trying to overcome adversity. In order to support our students’ success in the face of racial inequity, we need to maintain supportive relationships with them, and also continue to learn ourselves.
Healing Centered Engagement, and Healing Centered Schools, acknowledge the cultural effects of racial trauma while also uplifting the strength of individuals and their cultures. Remember, we are more than our trauma!
Healing Centered educators and caregivers are committed to:
- Learning about the impacts of history and systemic racism, and supporting schools in creating culturally responsive curriculum (CRC). It is also important to honor students’ reactions to the CRC and foment discussion around those reactions.
- Creating and supporting safe and brave environments at home and in class. Have the tough conversations!
- Modeling and supporting honesty with our children and students. It is ok to say “I don’t know”, or “I was wrong", or "I changed my mind".
- Encouraging student leadership through diversity and equity task forces.
- Prioritizing self-care. Learning can be uncomfortable, and buffering yourself from stress will be helpful.
Creating a more equitable culture is a marathon, not a sprint!