Utilizing KAP in Schools: An Evaluation of Educators’ and Staff Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Trauma

We examined differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to student trauma and trauma-informed practices among various educators and certified staff members in a United States, Midwestern school district. We examined three research questions: 1.) Are there significant differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among teachers with differing years’ experience? 2.) Are there significant differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among primary and secondary educators and staff? 3.) Are there significant differences in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among educators and staff who have participated in professional development (PD) regarding student trauma, and those who have not? We utilized a revised version of the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey (Law, 2019) focused on student trauma. The KAP survey was sent via email to all certified staff members in the school district. No significant differences were found among knowledge and attitudes; however, primary school educators implemented significantly more trauma-informed practices compared to secondary educators. Additionally, educators with PD implemented significantly more trauma-informed practices compared to those without PD. Findings revealed our staff members had similar levels of knowledge and attitudes, though practices differed depending on years’ experience, PD, and grades taught. Implications for future research relating to student trauma and the research-to-practice gap are discussed.