Faculty Gain Trauma Responsive Educator Certification

Huntington UFSD psychologists and social workers have achieved certificates as Trauma Responsive Educators following hours of professional development sessions provided by Frank Kros of Kros Learning Group.

Beginning in February, the group engaged in a 15 hour series of professional development sessions to learn about and respond to students who may have adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). Over the course of five sessions, psychologists and social workers learned about trauma and the brain, ACEs and healthy outcomes from positive experiences, resiliency building skills, managing stress and challenges, secrets of the adolescent brain and supporting elementary students.

“Participants were required to demonstrate their learning through application of case studies and other activities,” department director Diana Rich said. “All participants were engaged and interactive during the sessions and as always, represented the district with the highest level of professionalism. We are fortunate to have such a skilled, knowledgeable and dedicated team of psychologists and social workers across the district.”

Mrs. Rich assumed the position of district director of special education and student support services in May 2017. She had earlier served as Huntington’s K-6 chairperson of special education.

“Our team goes above and beyond continuously learning while staying current with trends, research and data regarding mental health,” Mrs. Rich said. “This professional development series was offered in our continued efforts to address and meet the varying social and emotional needs of our students, aligning with district wide and departmental goals.”