Supporting Children Through Trauma: Valley View Elementary School's Response to the Immigration Crackdown
In Columbia Heights, Minnesota, Valley View Elementary School implemented a strategy to support children affected by the immigration crackdown during the Trump administration. The school saw a decline in attendance as families kept their children at home to avoid immigration officers. To help the students cope with the psychological impact of the enforcement surge, therapy dog Sage, a goldendoodle, was introduced as part of the school's efforts. Sage provided comfort and support to children who witnessed arrests, experienced family separations due to deportation, or felt anxious during that period.
The trauma experienced by the children during the immigration crackdown left a lasting imprint on their mental well-being. The school district, like many others, offered virtual learning during the enforcement surge, but as students returned to in-person classes, the focus shifted to their recovery. Social worker Nicole Herje conducted emotional classes with kindergartners to help them express their feelings and emotions. The children shared their happiness, sadness, and longing to be back in school with their friends.
Research shows that prolonged exposure to high-stress environments can have a significant impact on children's brain development. The trauma experienced by young children, even those too young to fully comprehend the events, can lead to structural changes in the brain. The fear and anxiety felt by immigrant families, including those with legal status, can have long-term consequences on the mental health of American schoolchildren. The Brookings Institution estimates that millions of U.S. citizen children live with undocumented or temporarily legal parents, and the fear of detention or deportation can result in school absenteeism and emotional distress.
Valley View Elementary School staff identified students who may require additional support to address the trauma they experienced during the immigration crackdown. Social worker Herje conducted group therapy sessions with Sage the therapy dog to help these students process their emotions and feelings. The return to school provided a sense of normalcy and comfort for many students, allowing them to reunite with friends and feel loved and supported in their school community.
In conclusion, the efforts of Valley View Elementary School to support children affected by the immigration crackdown demonstrate the importance of addressing the psychological well-being of students in times of crisis. By providing emotional support, therapy sessions, and a supportive school environment, the school aims to help children recover from the trauma they experienced and thrive in their academic and personal lives.