REFLECTIONS

Reflections: Participants in Arts-based TIC/HCE Training series and PLC

In reviewing the preliminary reports on participant surveys compiled by Dr. Deborah E. Ward, it is clear that the various trainings and Peer Learning Community activities were unequivocally appreciated; participants used the training, reported that the training has impacted their professional and personal lives and that they valued the camaraderie and sense of community the gatherings offered. The reports capture specific, individual responses to different aspects of the AEN arts-based trauma-informed healing-centered strategies that can be summarized as consistently asking for more opportunities to “brush up,” “deepen,” “share and network,” and continue their learning.

more expansive ways to communicate that feel authentic, patient, and empathetic. I am mindful of how the creative and learning experiences I am facilitating can be used as an outlet for emotional expression and connecting to healing processes.”

Participants, whether in person or online, were almost unanimous in reporting that the trainings were impactful, and led to:

�� increased knowledge about trauma and how trauma impacts youth,

�� more confidence in working with communities impacted by trauma, and

�� learning new skills and strategies to work with communities impacted by trauma.

The choreographed presentations that paired the knowledge of clinicians and teaching artists were central to the success. The science was presented in language that was readily accessible and useful, with images and metaphors to help reinforce the content; and the arts activities were engaging, inspiring, and healing. All the presenters offered additional materials and resources if participants wanted to do additional research, and all templates for the activities were generously shared so that teachers and educators could easily replicate the experience with their students.

Next Step Scenarios

With the success of the first few phases of the initiative, AEN leadership and the facilitators are grappling with how to continue the work. With the return to in-person schools and business in spring 2022, there was a drop off in registration for the Art-based TraumaInformed/ Healing-Centered Engagement Training sessions and the Peer Learning Community.

Are there ways to strengthen connections with GNHCC, MBKN, NBOE, and other partners to deepen and spread the work in Newark? If AEN reaches out to new audiences, how will they maintain the honesty, authenticity, and quality of particular presenters and their presentations? Are there opportunities to build new strategic partnerships with existing Newark-based organizations, groups, and/or schools to share this work with their constituencies? How can AEN