Protective Factors: What Helps Students Rise Above ACEs in School

February 18, 2025 by Julia Rose M. Polk, LMFT

 

 

 

 

Can schools really help students overcome trauma? 

If you can effectively support the parents in supporting their kids: Science says YES.

In this episode, we uncover the outcome-changing power of Protective Factors—the relationship-affirming allies that can buffer the impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and keep students engaged in school. Using eye-opening data from the 2011-2012 National Survey of Children’s Health, my guest and I break down exactly how family and community support can turn the tide for struggling students—and what YOU can do to help.
Key Takeaways:
🎓 ACEs & School Success: How childhood trauma affects grades, engagement, and school retention.
🛡 The Power of Protective Factors: Strong family bonds, supportive communities, and safe spaces—why they matter more than you think.
🏫 Building a Resilient School Culture: How educators and school leaders can activate protective factors to improve student outcomes.
🚀 Actionable Strategies for Schools: Practical, research-backed ways to create more inclusive, connected, and trauma-informed classrooms.
Whether you're a teacher, counselor, or school leader, this episode will give you the insights and tools to help students rise above adversity and thrive.
🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share with fellow educators—because together, we can build stronger, more resilient school communities!
Links mentioned in this episode:

 

 

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