A CASE STUDY OF TRAUMA-INFORMED PRACTICE AND IMPLEMENTATION TO SUPPORT MENTAL HEALTH AND LEARNING IN PUBLIC SCHOOL IN SUFFOLK COUNTY, NEW YORK

The purpose of this study is to examine the readiness of school districts in Suffolk County, New York, to implement a trauma-informed system to address the growing needs of mental health interventions in student populations. A review of the literature will show a historical prevalence of mental health providers and individual student interventions within the school building, or in partnership with community agencies. Recent literature shows an increase in school-related issues have origins in student trauma or adverse childhood experiences. The study will examine the issue by conducting a mixed method analysis, using a survey instrument and focus group interviews, of members of the Suffolk Directors of Guidance. Significance of the study will help districts who want to implement a systematic and districtwide approach to mitigating trauma-related student issues by identifying current readiness and examining gaps in preparation to implement the National Dropout Prevention Center’s Trauma-Skilled Schools Model