Understanding Teacher Self-Efficacy to Address Students’ Social-Emotional Needs in the COVID-19 Pandemic

Teachers are returning to schools during the COVID-19 pandemic under the weight of unprecedented stressors to engage a student body that has also experienced stress and trauma. In this study, we examined how confident 454 teachers (55% Black) from 41 charter schools in New Orleans, Louisiana, were in their ability to address students’ social-emotional needs upon their return to school. Results showed that Black teachers were more likely to report a greater sense of efficacy in addressing students’ needs. Both Black and White teachers identified the top three resources needed to assist students: mental health supports, trainings, and in-class resources.