Post-Election Support and Resources
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The results of the presidential and state election may have a significant impact on our students, families and staff members. Students and adults are experiencing added stress this year caused by a global pandemic and racial unrest, and we anticipate the election may cause an increase in feelings of uncertainty. As a trauma-informed district, we value the social and emotional wellness of our school community and want to ensure staff, students and families are supported during this time. We are also committed to being a Safe and Welcoming School District for all students and families.
This year's election date was Tuesday, Nov. 3. We have previously shared information on how to practice your civic duty while also following guidelines that apply to public employees — click here to learn more.
Resources
Content Accordion
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Responding to the Insurrection at the US Capitol
Facing History Reources: Teaching with Current Events in Your Classroom
Supporting Students in the Context of the 2020 Election:
- Supporting Marginalized Students in the Context of the 2020 Election: Tips for Parents
- Supporting Marginalized Students in the Context of the 2020 Election: Tips for Educators
Talking about the chaos and violence at the Capitol:
Resources from SEO:
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Talking to Students After the Election
You can start by reaching out to your building level school psychologist, counselor or social worker to support you in discussion with a student who may be experiencing stress/anxiety caused by election results. Below are additional resources:
- Guidance for Reinforcing Safe, Supportive and Positive School Environments for All Students Post Election (National Association of School Psychologists, November 2016)
- Supporting Marginalized Students in Stressful Times: Tips for Educators (National Association of School Psychologists 2019)
- Teaching the Wednesday after the election: Teaching the 2020 Election: What Will You Do on Wednesday?
- Facing History Election Resources: Teaching Resources for the 2020 US Election
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Information on Student Led Walk outs or Protest
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Resources for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) Students and Families
- Youth Seen: Resources for BIPOC LGBTQ+ Students
- Race & Ethnicity
- Microaggressions: What Is A Microaggression? And What To Do If You Experience One. : Life Kit
- Strategies for reducing racial and ethnic prejudice: Strategies for Reducing Racial and Ethnic Prejudice: Essential Principles
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Resources for Undocumented Students and Families
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LGBTQ+ Student Supports
- Safe and Welcoming School District
- District LGBTQ+ Toolkit--outlines all DPS policies LGBTQ+ protections, and procedures
- Trevor Project Helpline
- Lamda Legal: Know Your Rights
- Youth Seen: Resources for BIPOC LGBTQ+ Students
- OneColorado: LGBTQ+ Advocacy
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Trauma Related Supports
- DPS Trauma-Informed Practices Remote Learning Live Webinars and Resources
- Trauma-Informed COVID-19 Resources and Tips
- DPS’s Trauma-Informed Practices 101 Module.
- Supportive resources for a host of concerns, Crisis Textline: https://www.crisistextline.org/resources/
Staff Support
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DPS Employee Assistance Program (includes access to free, confidential counseling for DPS employees and members of their household)
Practical, emotional, and supportive preparation actions you can take before the election. Make your post-election self-care plan now, from SELF: Self-Care Will Be Crucial Post-Election. Start Planning Now. | SELF
8 Questions That Can Help You Survive Election Stress, from Greater Good Science Center: Eight Questions That Can Help You Survive Election Stress
Supports for Families
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If guardians need additional support or assistance in accessing any of these resources, please direct them to reach out to the Family and Community Helpline at 720-423-3054 or FACEHelpline@dpsk12.org.
