Timothy Runge (Psychology) in collaboration with Timothy Knoster and Danielle Empson (McDowell Institute at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania) completed their comprehensive survey of almost 5,000 Pennsylvania educators regarding their preparedness to recognize and respond to students impacted by trauma or distress, including trauma/distress related to COVID-19.
Results indicated that less than half of educators felt prepared to recognize signs of trauma in their students.
Further, only one in four educators felt prepared to implement trauma-informed practices. On a positive note, the overwhelming majority of educators believe that professional development in trauma-informed practices is needed.
This research adds to Runge and Knoster's research about helping K-12 students to catch up during the coronavirus pandemic.