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5515 - Workforce Secondary Traumatic Stress

Policy 5515
Personnel

PURPOSE: The Tacoma Public School Board recognizes the importance of and is committed to preventing and addressing secondary traumatic stress for District personnel by supporting mental health in the workplace in order to promote a supportive, positive, and restorative workplace for the Whole Educator. Everyday school staff work with students experiencing trauma and loss. As a result, teachers, school counselors, administrators, and other school staff many experience secondary traumatic stress. When secondary traumatic stress is left unaddressed, it may lead to staff turnover, burnout, adult chronic absenteeism, and health issues that negatively impact everyone in the school community.

Secondary Traumatic Stress 
The Board acknowledges that secondary traumatic stress, also called compassion fatigue, is a natural but disruptive set of symptoms that may result when one person learns firsthand of the traumatic experiences of another. Symptoms of secondary traumatic stress may include feelings of isolation, anxiety, dissociation, physical ailments, and sleep disturbances. In addition, those affected by secondary traumatic stress may experience: changes in memory and perception; and disruption in their perceptions of safety, trust, and independence. 
 

Policy Statement 
The District will promote a positive workplace climate that includes a focus on diversity and inclusion. The Board hereby establishes a district-wide workforce mental health committee with the following functions: 

 

  • Share secondary traumatic stress, stress management, and other mental health resources and supports available through the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Educational Service District, and the School Employees’ Benefits Board;
  • Share links to a secondary traumatic stress self-assessment tool and any associated resources;
  • Written report to the Board at least once per year with a summary of committee activities, with periodic check-ins provided throughout the school year. 

The District will regularly assess district-level and school building–level implementation of this policy and procedure. The assessment will include input from the District’s workforce. The District will provide appropriate resources and training to schools and staff for continuous improvement.

 

Cross References:

  • 3112 – Social Emotional Learning
  • 5203 - Employee Assistance Program

Legal References:

  • 28A.300 RCW, 28A.400 RCW

Washington State Schools Directors’ Association (WSSDA) model Policy 5515 adopted with modifications.

Adoption Date: 4/27/2023

  • bargaining
  • staff