In today’s episode, we discuss a critical issue many schools are facing—how to help students and staff heal from trauma. Whether it's a safety event, severe weather like Hurricane Helene, or individual traumas, schools across the nation are navigating unprecedented challenges. To help students learn, we must first help them process what they've been through. As Lana Penley says, "In moments of crisis, we need to provide space for students and teachers to process what they've been through before diving back into academics."

I want to acknowledge those still in the midst of trauma, like those affected by ongoing flooding in North Carolina. We have to meet their immediate needs first, as we cannot move forward until people feel safe and supported. While my hometown of Camilla, Georgia, was spared from the worst of Hurricane Helene, I know many of you are still facing tremendous struggles, and my heart is with you.

In this episode, Lana Penley shares her powerful story of transformation. After her school burned down, she realized that test scores weren’t the primary goal—what truly mattered was creating a sense of community, connection, and healing. As her school focused on relationships, both with students and among the staff, they saw remarkable changes: teachers felt less burnout, students were more engaged, and yes, test scores went up. This episode is a resource for educators and principals who are hurting, who want to help their students, and who need to know that it’s okay to pause and heal before pushing forward.

Show notes, guest bio, and transcript: https://www.coolcatteacher.com/e865

Questions Answered in this Episode

• How do you help students and teachers heal after a traumatic event in a school community?
• What are the key steps to take in the aftermath of trauma, such as a hurricane or school safety event?
• How can schools create connection and community to create a safe learning environment?
• What practical strategies can teachers use to bring social-emotional learning into their classrooms?
• How can educators balance the need for academic progress with the emotional needs of students and staff?
• What lessons did Principal Lana Penley learn from her school burning down, and how did it change her approach to education?
• Why is it important to address the emotional needs of teachers as well as students in times of crisis?
• What role does mindfulness and stress reduction play in helping students and staff recover and thrive?