Brittany Seeley

Brittany Seeley

Program Director, New Jersey Coalition for Inclusive Education (www.njcie.org)

[email protected]

Lessons Learned

• The Power of Restorative Practices: One significant lesson is that restorative justice practices can effectively address the impacts of maltreatment. By fostering open dialogue, accountability, and community support, we can help students rebuild trust and relationships. This approach not only supports healing for the affected child but also promotes a culture of empathy and understanding within the school community.
• Understanding Trauma's Impact: I have learned that children with disabilities, especially those with emotional, behavioral, and mental health needs, often carry the weight of trauma. Recognizing the signs of trauma and understanding its effects on behavior and learning is crucial. Implementing trauma-informed practices allows us to respond with compassion and patience, creating a safe environment where students feel valued and understood.
• Empowerment Through Collaboration: Another important lesson is that collaboration among various stakeholders is essential for effective systemic change. By bringing together educators, mental health professionals, and families, we create a more comprehensive understanding of each child’s needs. This collaborative effort empowers everyone involved to advocate for trauma-informed practices and restorative justice, ultimately benefiting students who have faced maltreatment.

Resources Developed

• Documents
• Grant Work Capacity-Building: Supporting Black and Hispanic Communities to  Reduce Seclusion, Restraint, Suspension, and Expulsion in Schools
• https://padlet.com/fredb3/trauma-informed-care-mj5sj4t0i1jwxqrv
• https://padlet.com/fredb3/executive-functioning-resources-and-supports-…

Suggested Resources

• https://traumaresearchfoundation.org/
• International Institute for Restorative Practices https://www.iirp.edu/
• https://www.samhsa.gov/

Collaborative Areas of Interest

• Systemic Change
• Trauma Informed Practices
• Restorative Practices