The State of Educational Affairs

Abstract

The current methods of promoting student learning are toxic and influenced by diverse forces throughout social ecology. Bronfenbrenner’s (Ecology of Human Development (1st ed)., Harvard University Press, Cambridge, 1979) ecological systems theory serves as the theoretical foundation through which Educational Trauma can be understood. It specifically outlines the different forces impinging upon educational programs, such as mass media, local and federal governments, school boards, schools themselves, and families too—to the detriment of students. Students are inseparable elements of the culture, or social ecology, they live in. This chapter deconstructs the various elements of society that impact schools. And it concludes with an interview of Jessica Morey, executive director, Inward Bound Mindfulness Education for youth.