Strong SchoolsatAlignment Rockford
The Healing-Centered Student Support Initiative is helping Rockford schools become nurturing, restorative environments where students can thrive. Learn more about how we are making a difference.
what we know
Students facing trauma experience significant challenges in developing the high-level executive functioning skills needed for learning and success in school.
Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are widespread:
As of 2018, 45% of children in the United States have experienced at least one ACE.
One in ten children nationally has faced three or more ACEs, putting them at high risk for further challenges.
Racial disparities in ACEs are evident, with Black and Latino children disproportionately affected.
These realities underscore the need for all students to have access to, and connections with healing, resilience building, and support.
What we are doing
The Strong Schools: Healing-Centered Student Support Initiative is working to help Rockford schools become nurturing, restorative environments where students can thrive.
Recognizing the impact of trauma and emotional health on learning, Strong Schools prioritizes holistic well-being to improve academic performance, resiliency, and social-emotional learning (SEL). Our approach leverages collaboration between schools, community organizations, and mental health professionals to co-design systems that support students and their families.
Here’s how we’re making a difference:
School-Led Implementation
Empowering schools to lead the integration of trauma-responsive practices tailored to their unique needs.
Student and Family Engagement
Building stronger connections between schools, students, and their families to foster a sense of belonging and partnership in learning.
Trauma-Responsive Practices
Embedding strategies and training within schools to address trauma and promote resiliency, increase belonging and efficacy, and create a culture of healing.
Community Partnerships
Bringing together community organizations, government agencies, and mental health professionals to provide the resources and expertise schools need to address gaps in support for students.
Get involved
The Strong Schools initiative is currently being piloted in eight schools within the Rockford Public School District 205, with plans to expand. Be a part of this vital effort to create positive change in our community.
OUR STRONG SCHOOLS PARTNERS
Support our Work
Your support matters to the work we are doing in the community. Donate today and help every student in the community reach their potential.
WANT TO DISCUSS WHERE YOUR DONATION COULD BEST SUPPORT OUR COMMUNITY’S CHILDREN?
CONTACT:
Emily Klonicki
Executive Director
eklonicki@alignmentrockford.com
(779) 774-4389