Lincoln Public Schools (LPS) is offering professional development through its ElevatED: Elevating Professional Practices program. The program aims to provide educators with engagement strategies and a better understanding of student challenges. The latest sessions began in October 2025 at Southwest High School. The program offers courses for certificated staff in their second or third years at LPS. More than 20 courses are available, covering topics such as poverty, trauma, and student engagement.
One session, ‘The Impacts of Poverty and Trauma,’ was led by school social workers Kelsey Middendorf and Rachel Houston. They discussed adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed restorative practices (TIRPs). The course explained how ACEs, including abuse, neglect, or household dysfunction, can affect student learning and wellbeing. According to 2023 data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 75 percent of U.S. high school students reported at least one ACE. This data supports the use of trauma-informed approaches in schools.
Teachers, social workers, and school psychologists from different grade levels attended the session. They shared perspectives and learned practical strategies. Educators were encouraged to use TIRPs, such as taking deep breaths before responding to students, listening actively, and maintaining a supportive posture. These techniques aim to create a safe and respectful classroom environment for students facing challenges outside of school…