Support for Principals During Times of Crisis

NAESP stands in support of principals who are responsible for leading school communities and maintaining a positive school culture, even during these difficult times. Already charged with navigating the sprawling impact of COVID-19, as well as working to address systemic racism and racial equity, principals are facing enormous demands to meet students’ needs and navigate their schools through these turbulent times. Yesterday’s disturbing events at the nation’s U.S. Capitol pose another challenge for principals as they help staff and students alike process these distressing events. As always, NAESP is committed to supporting our members work through these challenges, identify teachable moments, and help their staff and students heal from this trauma.

To that end, NAESP held a special edition of the Principal(ing) in Place forum to provide members the opportunity to connect with one another, help process these events, and share ideas and strategies for moving forward. You can watch the recording below:

Additional Resources:

Caring for Students in the Wake of a Traumatic News Event
Includes four strategies on addressing student emotions. Read more
Source: Education Week

When Bad Things Are Happening
Includes strategies for leading conversations with students. Read more
Source: Teaching Tolerance

Helping Students During Crisis
A curated list of strategies and related resources. Read more
Source: American School Counselor Association

How to Talk to Kids About Difficult Subjects
Includes developmentally appropriate strategies by age group. Read more
Source: Principal magazine, NAESP

How Free is Out-of-School Speech?
Legal guidance on educators expressing opinions on social media. Read more
Source: NAESP, Principal magazine

Foundations of Democracy and Government
Newly updated collection of resources to facilitate discussions with students and community. Read more
Source: Share My Lesson, AFT