Empowering Educators for Trauma-Sensitive Success

MSAA Professional Development Workshop for All Educators Working with Children

Empowering Educators for
Trauma-Sensitive Success

The workshop is an introduction/overview to trauma and learning.
 It will focus on the nature of trauma in school-aged children, how trauma manifests itself behaviorally in school settings, and how school personnel can deal more effectively with traumatized students. This workshop will include how trauma triggers the brain's stress response, what that looks like in the classroom/school environment, and the connection between trauma and student's sense of safety and trust. It will also include both the whole school and classroom strategies to begin creating a safe and supportive school.

Workshop Objectives:

·         Understanding the ACES Study: Learn about the ACES study, its impact, and how participants can use this research in their own schools

·         Neuroscience of Trauma and Learning: Understand the impact of trauma on the brain and learning, and the neuroscience in students' brains when they feel safe and when they do not

·         Relationship-Building Practices: Explore relationship-building practices that aim to support students with interpersonal trauma

·         Trauma-Informed Strategies: Be introduced to trauma-informed actions and strategies that create safe classroom and school environments

·         Principles of Trauma-Informed Approach: Identify the principles that guide a trauma-informed approach

When: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 8:30 am to 11:30 am

Delivery Method: In-Person Workshop

Location: The MSAA Office, 33 Forge Parkway, Franklin, MA

Presenter: Tara K. Rossi, Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary

PD Hours: 3 in Content Area Leadership and Administration

Fees: Member $150 / Non-Member $205

MSAA Contact: Ethel Kawesa, ekawesa@msaa.net 

Tara K. Rossi | Edward G. Molin Upper Elementary

Tara K. Rossi is a veteran educator and transformative school leader with over 30 years of experience across urban, rural, and suburban districts, serving students from pre-K through high school. Now in her 14th year as Principal in Newburyport, MA, Tara brings deep expertise in creating trauma-sensitive schools, cultivating trust among staff, and building joyful, resilient school cultures that support both students and educators.

With 22 years in administration, Tara is known for her innovative, “outside-the-box” approach to problem-solving, her ability to mentor and inspire teachers and school leaders, and her commitment to equity and well-being. She is certified in Trauma and Learning through Lesley University and has spent the last 8 years as an adjunct faculty member, teaching educators how to translate trauma-informed practices into real-world classroom strategies.

Tara is also a skilled facilitator in implementing PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) and integrating social-emotional learning into schoolwide systems. Her work centers on empowering school communities to thrive by fostering safe, connected, and energized environments where students and staff alike can grow.