With COVID-19 and the closure of schools, many narratives have focused on remote learning and teaching, and in some spaces food security. But what about our most vulnerable students? This pandemic also compromises student safety and well-being. Teachers and school leaders are primary reporters of physical and sexual abuse, neglect, and other issues of wellness. So how can we approach these challenges?
April 28, 2020, the UNC School of Education convened school professionals — including teachers, counselors, social workers, and principals — and Dorothy Espelage, William C. Friday Distinguished Professor of Education who has 25 years studying school violence, bully, and harassment, for an online discussion around how to keep students safe while schools aren’t in session and what roles schools play. Chris Scott, a clinical assistant professor in the educational leadership program and a former school principal and district leader, moderated.
Panelists included:
Christopher Scott, clinical assistant professor
Dorothy Espelage, William C. Friday Distinguished Professor of Education
Alison Cleveland, middle school principal
Trinity Pellas, school social worker
Brittanie Howard, middle school teacher and UNC Master of School Administration student
Angela Teal, middle school counselor
