Four Oaks Education Liaison, Kara Grafft says: The past couple of years has been difficult for all of us, but especially for our students, teachers, administrators, and educators. A global pandemic disrupted routines and led to increased stress, isolation, and disconnection; all of this on top of the existing issues facing our schools.

As an education liaison, I support schools in developing trauma-informed spaces and creating optimal learning environments so students can achieve academic success. I’ve worked with educators across Iowa and have seen first-hand the stress and strain they are under but also their strength and commitment to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment where students’ social, emotional, behavioral health needs are met.

I believe a foundational part of creating this learning environment is the utilization of restorative practices rather than traditional punitive discipline to resolve conflict, repair harm, and heal relationships.

Read the full story HERE