Education at Illinois Leaders Create Licensure Recommendations for K-12 Teachers on Trauma-Informed Practices
In August 2023, Illinois passed legislation requiring teacher institutes to provide instruction on trauma-informed practices for in-service and preservice teachers. The College of Education was ahead of curve, already preparing two new online programs centered on trauma-informed practices: one a master’s program, the other a graduate certificate.
Lynn Burdick, director of trauma-informed education in Curriculum & Instruction, and Catherine Corr, associate professor in Special Education, have been instrumental in getting those programs out—and in helping to shape the future of trauma-informed education throughout Illinois.
Burdick and Corr served on a committee that was charged last year by the Illinois State Board of Education to come up with initial and renewal licensure recommendations.
Our committee made recommendations based on ISBE’s goals, including demonstrated proficiency in adverse childhood experiences, trauma, secondary traumatic stress, and creating trauma-responsive learning environments,” says Burdick.
Research shows that teachers who use trauma-informed practices experience reduced classroom management challenges and higher student achievement. And, Corr says, it helps to retain teachers.