With recent changes in education and the political climate, students are experiencing more trauma than ever – due to immigration, racism, loss, and/or violence. Almost 80% of Latino youth and newcomers suffer childhood trauma; interfering with brain development, emotional health, behavior, and academic achievement.

Our new textbook Trauma-Responsive Literacy for Latinos and Newcomers in Pk-12 is the first resource for teachers and school leaders that both outlines the devastating impact of trauma on students’ ability to learn, and also introduces a research-based framework to address student trauma. The framework features 20 literacy lesson planners that provide opportunities for healing and connection to students in grades PK-12. The lesson planners offer:

• detailed instructions for trauma-responsive activities
• before-, during-, and after-reading activities
• vocabulary, standards, and higher-order questions
• worksheets in English and Spanish teachers can use to extend thinking

This text will be a cornerstone in teacher-preparation programs and a lifeline for teachers and school leaders whose students are weighed down by trauma.

Trauma-Responsive Literacy for Latinos and Newcomers in Pk-12 is now available. For professional development opportunities or more information, please contact lead author Tammy Oberg De La Garza at tobergdelagarza@roosevelt.edu.