Dr. Ashley Brandon & Emily Farkas
Grand Canyon University
The aim of this project is to bring together a diverse group of experts in character development and trauma-informed practices to collaboratively create a comprehensive resource for educators.
Project Overview
This resource, a carefully crafted book of activities and applications, serves as a bridge between trauma-informed strategies and character development, offering educators practical tools to foster positive character virtues while addressing the unique needs of students who have experienced trauma. A diverse group of experts in character development and trauma-informed practices collaboratively created this comprehensive resource for educators. The activities included are rooted in research and designed to promote character growth within a trauma-sensitive framework, ensuring they are both effective and supportive. This book provides a wealth of actionable resources and ideas, as well as valuable insights into the connection between trauma-informed care and character education. It equips PK-12 educators and school leaders with essential knowledge, processes, and strategies to create an environment that supports the holistic development of all students. By grounding the activities in proven research and evidence-based practices, this resource empowers educators to integrate trauma-sensitive approaches with character development initiatives, ultimately helping students build resilience, empathy, and positive social-emotional skills.
Resources and outputs
This book is a comprehensive, research‑informed guide that integrates trauma‑informed practices with character education to support PK–12 students’ academic, social, and emotional flourishing. It explains the nature and impact of trauma, outlines foundational principles for creating safe and supportive school environments, and emphasizes the educator’s own self‑awareness as essential to effective practice. The book provides a large collection of adaptable, grade‑specific activities addressing diverse trauma experiences, from bullying and community violence to loss, mental health challenges, and family instability, while offering practical tools, reflection prompts, and professional‑development resources. Through its blend of evidence‑based strategies, real‑world case studies, and actionable classroom approaches, the book equips educators and leaders to build resilient, character‑rich school communities where all students can heal, grow, and thrive.
Conference presentations
Advancing Character Across Education- March 2-4, 2026 (Phoenix, AZ)
Association of Moral Education – June 12-14, 2026 (Madrid)
MA Character Education Residential – April 19-21, 2026 (Charlotte, NC)
Further Information
Additional resources similar to this grant output and created by the grantees can be viewed on their website. CCCE Books – CCCE Dev