Herron says while most people wouldn’t think family evictions were a school district problem, when kids are experiencing instability or hunger or are without a warm coat, they can’t truly focus on learning. Routes to Resources became one example of many of the lengths she and her district will go to ensure students and families have the social, emotional and physical supports they need, especially during trying times. Those supports extend to teachers and staff, too. OKCPS is working on a staff wellness plan because teachers who are unwell cannot be expected to spread wellness to students. Throughout the pandemic, even with the best-laid protocols, mask mandates and new ionization systems to clean the air in every school, security has been disrupted for everyone, teachers included. “We can’t forget about our teachers in this process,” said Herron. “It can’t be lost on us that just because they are adults they don’t have fears. [We have] to model and provide [SEL] for our teachers, and then let them model it for our students.” Compassion fatigue has never been more real, for teachers and for parents playing the role of teacher. “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” said Kirk. “Self-care is important but so is collective care — asking for help when we need it and collaborating to meet those unique needs.”
HANK LISTENS TO SECOND GRADERS READ.
Trashy pick-up line #34
“You look a little tire-d, can I give you a lift?”
Arcadia Lake Sweep Join Us and Help Keep Arcadia Lake Clean. Saturday | April 3 | 8 to 11am Free T-shirt & Breakfast | ArcadiaLakeOK.com 216-7470 | Masks required at registration area.
32 METROFAMILYMAGAZINE.COM / MAR-APR 2021
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