Peak Team: Survey of Student Strengths and Needs and Teacher's Evaluation of an Innovative Trauma-Informed School Program.

Abstract

Purpose: Positive childhood experiences build a sense of belonging and connection and predict school success and wellness. The peak team curriculum creates positive childhood experiences to build resilient mindsets and relationships for youth struggling with toxic stress. The purpose of this study was to survey the strengths and needs of predominantly Black students, grades 4-7, in a public charter school and to evaluate the impact of peak team. This research is crucial due to the high levels of toxic stress faced by these students, which can significantly impact their academic and emotional development.

Methods: In late 2020 and early 2021, 270 and then 210 students completed a 41-question survey; 25 teachers and school administrators participated in focus groups.

Results: Surveys showed that participating students had pride, optimism, emotional awareness, and caring, supportive families. Most distrusted neighbors who were not helpful, experienced loss from death and incarceration of loved ones, and had been stressed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Teachers and administrators valued the peak team approach and recommended expansion of services. Teachers noted significant improvements in student engagement, emotional regulation, and social interactions, highlighting the program's positive impact on students' behavior and emotional well-being.

Conclusion: Surveys of students help to inform school health practice by revealing the strengths of children and their challenges needing attention. The peak team program had a positive impact by improving emotional regulation, fostering supportive relationships, and building resilience. Pride, optimism, emotional awareness, and caring families improve educational success and lifelong wellbeing. Trauma-informed programs teach children how to calm themselves, regulate emotions and behaviors, tap their strengths, and build resiliency to cope.