About the Session: This presentation provides educators with an introduction to trauma-informed practices that can be integrated into everyday school settings. Participants will learn how trauma can affect students’ learning, behavior, and relationships, explore the core principles of trauma-informed schools, and identify practical strategies for fostering safe, predictable, and supportive classroom environments. The session will also address secondary traumatic stress and strategies for maintaining educator wellbeing

About the Speakers: Jerica Knox, PhD, NCSP, is an Assistant Professor in the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Maryland School of Medicine and a faculty member at the National Center for School Mental Health. Her work focuses on advancing comprehensive school mental health systems and promoting trauma-informed, culturally responsive practices in schools. Dr. Knox leads statewide evaluation and implementation initiatives that support equitable access to school mental health services and provides training and technical assistance to educators, school mental health professionals, and community partners.