Creating Safe, Supportive Classrooms for All Learners
Many children arriving in U.S. schools from immigrant and refugee backgrounds have endured trauma, including fear, separation, and loss. These experiences can deeply affect their emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being.
Phase II of the Support for Immigrant and Refugee Students (SIRS) Curriculum is designed to help students build resilience and feel safe in the classroom. Grounded in trauma-informed practices, the curriculum supports emotional healing and empowers students to manage stress and connect with others.
“Trauma is an experience that is emotionally or physically harmful and has lasting adverse effects on well-being.”
— Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach
Trauma-Informed, Resilience-Focused Learning
The curriculum promotes:
- Safety and trust
- Collaboration and empowerment
- Cultural and identity awareness
By fostering empathy and understanding, the lessons create a space where students’ voices are heard and biases can be challenged.
Curriculum Highlights
- Lesson 1: Helps students develop emotional coping tools, with a focus on supporting those affected by trauma.
- Lesson 2: Builds empathy for the immigrant and refugee experience.
Phase II complements Phase I, which introduced emotional expression and classroom community-building. All lessons align with the CASEL Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) framework, supporting students’ ability to navigate daily challenges with confidence and compassion.