Building Equity Through Trauma-Sensitive Schools

The Yolo County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) hosted two workshops this month with Dora Dome from Dora Dome Law to explore how trauma-sensitive schools can be a powerful equity-building tool. Dora Dome provided an overview of the 2013 AB 1729 Amendments, which were passed to support districts in reducing the use of exclusionary discipline for all students and minimize the disproportionate impact on students of color and other marginalized groups. Participants were able to discuss examples of model practices that have resulted in a reduction in the number of disciplinary referrals and increased academic achievement for students of color. Participants reviewed the Education Code disciplinary code of conduct and had the opportunity to test their knowledge while working through hypothetical situations. These trainings also provided participants with an understanding of the procedural safeguards that must be provided when disciplining students with special needs to ensure that the rights of the students are protected. We hope to have Dora Dome back soon!