The Moment Archive

Today, Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all charges. But our legal system is still far from just, and many students may still be feeling a lack of closure. In critical moments like these, we know students look to educators for guidance. We hope you’ll reaffirm the value of Black lives. We hope you’ll create a space for students to process—not debate. And we hope you’ll get the support you need. These resources can help you hold space for critical conversations in the days to come.

We are lifting up educators and students of color as we all continue to witness fatal police shootings—this time in Minneapolis, Chicago and Honolulu—and as video circulates of police violence against a Black and Latinx man in Virginia. Please take time to care for yourself as best you can. To all educators, when addressing these acts of violence, make sure you’re aware of students who may be experiencing trauma related to these events. These resources can help you support your students and give them space to grieve.

As we witness a significant rise in coronavirus cases, we encourage you to take care of yourself and your students. These resources recommend trauma-informed practices and culturally responsive teaching methods—including supporting Muslim students, families and educators who begin Ramadan observance next week amid the pandemic. We wish you continued strength and compassion in these difficult times.

This week, as Derek Chauvin goes on trial for the murder of George Floyd, we urge you to continue supporting and centering Black students. These resources will help you provide that support, initiate discussions on the impact of systemic racism and police violence, and bring the Black Lives Matter movement into your classroom.

As we grapple with the impact of violence following shootings in Atlanta and Boulder—and ongoing stressors surrounding the pandemic—it’s important to be mindful of students’ mental health needs and our own. Share resources like the Crisis Text Line with students, some of whom may need immediate support amidst a crisis. And use these webinars to help you respond to trauma, normalize talking about mental health and continue practicing good self-care.