Short Background: Childhood trauma can have a direct, immediate, and potentially hazardous impact on the ability of a child to develop and learn. Defined as a response to a negative event or series of events which surpass a child’s ordinary coping skills, trauma comes in many forms including maltreatment, witnessing violence, or loss of a loved one. These events, collectively referred to as adverse childhood experiences, can interfere with brain development, learning, and behavior – each potentially impacting academic success and health outcomes. Schools have an essential role to play in