THE EFFECTS OF TRAUMA-INFORMED CLASSROOM PRACTICES IN PRIMARY AND SECONDARY EDUCATION AND THE BENEFITS FOR ADOPTED STUDENTS

The purpose of this study is to illuminate the unique circumstances of adopted children in educational spaces, and to explore challenges that stem from adoption-related trauma. The education system is working to be inclusive and responsive to students’ needs through support such as Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504s. It provides paraprofessionals and language specialists to English Language (EL) and Multilingual Learners (ML) and counseling services to students with social and emotional needs. Through research and personal accounts, this study explores the importance of understanding the trauma and educational needs of the adopted child and the relevance of implementing trauma-informed mainstream classrooms as a means of inclusivity and support for these underserved individuals’ academic successes.