Our Work
The Institute for the Pedagogy of Humanity advances its mission through four interconnected areas of work. Together, these efforts reflect the Institute’s Theory of Change and support the transformation of learning ecosystems through trauma-responsive, humanistic practice.
Across all areas, the Institute operates through evidence-informed methods, interdisciplinary collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to dignity, safety, and belonging.
Research and Knowledge Department
The Institute conducts, synthesizes, and disseminates rigorous research that advances trauma-responsive education and human-centered learning. This work centers both academic scholarship and lived experience, contributing to a growing national body of knowledge on trauma, resilience, human development, and the conditions that support humane learning environments.
Current and ongoing research activities include:
- Empirical and qualitative studies
- Defining and advancing the field of Educational Traumatology
- Evaluation of trauma-responsive programs and policies
- Development of conceptual and theoretical frameworks
- Publications, white papers, and open-access resources
- University and research partnerships
Through this work, the Institute contributes foundational scholarship to the emerging field of educational traumatology and supports research-to-practice translation at a national level.
Educator Support & Professional Learning
The Institute provides trauma-responsive, humanistic learning opportunities for educators, school staff, administrators, higher education faculty, and educational leaders. These offerings support professionals in creating learning environments grounded in safety, dignity, and relational connection, while also addressing educator well-being, burnout, and system-level strain.
Professional learning efforts may include:
- Workshops and multi-session trainings
- University partnerships for curriculum integration
- Coaching and sustained professional support
- Trauma-responsive child guidance training
- School- and district-wide professional development
- Higher education course design and consultation
This work supports sustainable transformation across classrooms, schools, and educator-preparation programs.
Family & Community Initiatives
The Institute strengthens learning ecosystems by supporting families, caregivers, and communities in navigating trauma, advocacy, and relational safety. This work recognizes that children thrive when the adults in their lives are equipped with stable, compassionate tools and when home–school partnerships are strong.
Family and community initiatives may include:
- Caregiver coaching and support
- Trauma-responsive family resources
- IEP and special education advocacy
- Community workshops and learning events
- Stabilization and resilience-building strategies
- Resource development tailored to family and community needs
These initiatives support families in creating safe, consistent environments that reinforce trauma-responsive practices across home and school contexts.
Public Scholarship & Systems Engagement
The Institute contributes to national dialogue, policy development, and systemic transformation in education. Through public scholarship and systems engagement, the Institute disseminates trauma-responsive, humanistic principles to broader audiences and works with institutions to embed relational safety as a foundational element of learning.
Activities may include:
- Conference presentations and keynote addresses
- Policy consultation and systems advising
- Publications, briefs, and public-facing scholarship
- University and organizational partnerships
- Dissemination of educational guides, frameworks, and learning tools
- Engagement with national networks, coalitions, and research communities
This work amplifies the Institute’s impact by influencing the systems, structures, and policies that shape learning environments nationwide.