Addressing teachers’ trauma; plus, antiracist teaching in a white classroom

Addressing teachers’ trauma; plus, antiracist teaching in a white classroom

Author: Ethical Schools July 9, 2021 Duration: 40:11

We speak with Shayla Ewing, English and drama teacher in Pekin, Illinois, about supporting teachers experiencing secondary and primary trauma, which the pandemic intensified.  We also talk about the how and why of teaching about white privilege in an all-white classroom.

Overview

00:00-00:44 Intros

00:44-02:23 Becoming a Pekin High School English and drama teacher

02:23-03:40 Teach Plus Illinois

03:40-04:46 “Compassion fatigue Is overwhelming educators”

04:46-06:54 Symptoms and contributing factors of compassion fatigue

06:54-10:46 Recommendations for compassion fatigue healing, including things to do and not to do 

10:46-13:19 Healing for teachers’ own trauma

13:19-16:38 Support for teachers and students in crises

16:38-20:29 Rewards for working unsustainable hours

20:29-24:05 Incorporating educator well-being into educational initiatives

24:05-29:04 Talking about white privilege in all-white classes

29:04-32:57 Students’ reactions

32:57-35:21 Parents’ reactions

35:21-40:11 Outro

Transcription


Conversations about education often focus on test scores and curriculum, but there’s a deeper layer that truly shapes a student’s experience. Ethical Schools digs into that layer, exploring what it means to build a learning community grounded in integrity and care. Each week, hosts Amy and Jon sit down with educators and innovators who are actively reimagining schools. You’ll hear specific, grounded discussions about the practical work of creating environments where every student feels safe and respected. The dialogue frequently addresses how to support young people dealing with trauma, moving beyond theory to share actionable strategies that teachers are using right now. More than just problem-solving, this podcast highlights how to empower students themselves to become advocates and changemakers in their own communities. It’s a series that connects philosophy with daily practice, looking at the social and cultural structures within schools through a lens of ethics. For anyone invested in the future of education-whether you’re a teacher, administrator, or simply a concerned community member-this podcast offers a thoughtful and necessary perspective on the foundational values that make education meaningful.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 240

Ethical Schools
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