Empathy in Education: Navigating Complex Perspectives and Supporting Our Educators Through Challenging Times
We believe great educators are committed to preparing students to navigate a complex world made of multiple perspectives. We’re keenly aware of the polarization, stress, and heavy emotional toll the conflict in Gaza has created for members of the PEBC community.
When matters of identity become sources of pain and discord in the classroom, it presents profound challenges for students and educators.
We are deeply appreciative of the educators who are working especially hard right now to create a welcoming, inclusive environment, and offering a compassionate ear to students and one another. If we teach our children to welcome and learn from those moments, not run away from them, they will be better equipped to navigate today’s world, and thrive in the lives they choose as adults.
We want to remind you that we’re here for you. To support you in navigating this challenging environment and supporting all students, we offer the following resources:
- Talking to Kids About Violence [National Association of School Psychologists]
- Secondary Traumatic Stress and Self-Care Packet [Trauma-Sensitive Schools]
- Safe2Tell – Anonymously report anything that concerns or threatens you, your friends, your family, or your community
- My students asked if I was ‘Team Israeli’ or Team Palestine.’ Here is what I said [Chalkbeat]
Thank you for your support, resilience, and dedication on behalf of each and every learner.