In this session we will consider the power of knowledge; how can understanding the neuroscience of toxic stress empower us to self-regulate and help our students, cope, engage, connect, and learn. How will we welcome our students and colleagues to our institutions and classrooms this year and beyond? What can we, educators, possibly do to help attend to their mental health and ameliorate their exhaustion and distress, while at the same time, intentionally engaging in self-care?

We will examine the principles and practical examples of equity-centered trauma-informed approaches and reflect on the connections between trauma-informed education, healing, and restorative justice. Participants will walk away with concrete strategies they can use in their own courses and contexts to help their students’ learning and success.