Coalitional Kindness: Moving Beyond Niceness to Envision Critical Pedagogies of Care
Keynote: Dr. Mara Lee Grayson
Friday, April 14, 2023
The following is a blog post provided by Dr, Iris D. Ruiz, MWP continuing lecturer, in which she shares some personal and professional reflections on the symposium:
As a first-time attendee, I was thrilled to participate in the Trauma-Informed Teaching Symposium. From start to finish, it was an eye-opening and empowering experience that left me with a renewed sense of purpose in my role as an educator.
The symposium was expertly organized, with well-curated sessions and knowledgeable presenters who were passionate about trauma-informed education. The atmosphere was warm and welcoming, and I felt supported and included throughout the event. The organizers made sure to create a safe space where participants could share their thoughts and experiences without fear of judgment, which fostered meaningful discussions and connections with fellow educators.
Helen Sandoval, MWP Continuing Lecturer and Dr. Mara Lee Grayson getting ready to start the day!
One of the highlights of the symposium was the emphasis on understanding the impact of trauma on students and the importance of creating trauma-sensitive classrooms. The presenters shared practical strategies and tools that I could easily implement in my own teaching practice. I learned about the power of empathy, active listening, and creating a sense of belonging for students who have experienced trauma. The information provided was well-researched, and the presenters shared their personal anecdotes, which made the content relatable and memorable.
Another aspect that I appreciated was the focus on self-care for educators. The symposium acknowledged the challenges that teachers face in dealing with trauma on a daily basis and provided strategies for self-care and resilience. I left the symposium with a renewed sense of awareness about my own well-being and the importance of prioritizing self-care to better support my students.
The networking opportunities were also invaluable. I had the chance to connect with like-minded educators who shared their own experiences and insights. It was inspiring to hear about the innovative approaches that other schools and districts were implementing to promote trauma-informed practices, and I gained new perspectives that I could bring back to my own classroom.
Overall, the Trauma-Informed Teaching Symposium was an incredible experience. I left feeling inspired, equipped with practical strategies, and with a deeper understanding of the impact of trauma on students. I am grateful for the opportunity to have attended this symposium, and I highly recommend it to any educator who is looking to create a more inclusive and trauma-sensitive classroom environment.
It was an amazing day!
For more photos click here.
Photos taken by, Iris D. Ruiz
