AAFSC’s Toolkit of Trauma-Sensitive Classroom Strategies

The Arab-American Family Support Center (AAFSC)—the first and largest Arabic-speaking, trauma-informed social service agency in New York City— provides English language academic support, homework help, college access and SAT preparation to Arab, Middle-Eastern, Muslim, and South Asian immigrant youth through its Brooklyn Youth Program. Many participants have experienced harassment and bullying, resulting in trauma, toxic stress, and behavioral and developmental challenges. As part of its improvement plan, AAFSC will consult with the National Council of Behavioral Health to create a trauma-sensitive, school-adapted, classroom strategies toolkit that will enable staff to adapt the learning environment and respond to students’ mental health needs.