Following a devastating terror attack against Israel on October 7, 2023, and amid ongoing battles between Hamas and Israel, it is important for educators and families to understand the context and potential impacts of these events on students and the wider school community. This is of particular importance given the recent documented rise in acts of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia within California.
The resources below are provided to assist with placing these events in historical context, addressing social-emotional impacts, and promoting empathy and inclusivity within our classrooms. These resources are non-exhaustive and intended solely to support access to reliable information. Educators know their school community best and should evaluate any resource prior to use to ensure it meets their unique needs.
We would like to thank the staff at the San Diego COE for their leadership in compiling and sharing a number of the below resources at the outset of this conflict. Additional resources from San Diego COE can be found here.
EDUCATOR RESOURCES- Conflict in the Middle East Following a Surprise Attack by Hamas Fighters on Israel – C-SPAN Classroom
- Making a Difference in the Midst of the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict | Lesson Plan – PBS Learning Media
- The Israeli-Palestinian Conflict Resource Guide – TeachMidEast
- Fostering Civil Discourse: How Do We Talk About Issues That Matter – Facing History and Ourselves –
- Processing Attacks in Israel and the Outbreak of War in the Region – Facing History and Ourselves
- Teaching Controversial Issues: A Framework for Reflective Practice – Judy Pace
- Classroom Deliberations: A Model for Structured Discussion of Contested Political Topics – Street Law
- Conducting a Civil Conversation in the Classroom – Constitutional Rights Foundation
- Roots and Impact of Antisemitism Lesson Plan – Facing History & Ourselves
- Jewish American Teaching Resources – Santa Cruz COE
- Countering Islamophobia Lesson Plan – Learning for Justice
- Confronting Islamophobia in Education – Intercultural Education
FAMILY RESOURCES
- Santa Cruz County Schools Student & Family Behavioral Health Supports
- NAMI Teen & Young Adult HelpLine
- Talking to Your Kids About War – VeryWell Family
- How to Talk to Your Children About Conflict and War – UNICEF
- Handle with Care: Supporting Young People During Crises – Learning for Justice
- How Do I Talk To My Kids About Violence in the News – Common Sense Media
- Table Talk: Family Conversations About Current Events – Anti-Defamation League
- Hamas Attack on Israel Kills Hundreds of People | A Parent/Family Discussion Guide – Anti-Defamation League
- How to Help Your Child’s Compassion Grow – Greater Good Science Center
WELLNESS & SEL RESOURCES
- SEL Classroom Resources – Santa Cruz COE
- Bullying and Violence Prevention – American Institutes for Research
- National Child Traumatic Stress Network
- Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of middle school children – American Psychological Association
- Resilience in a time of war: Tips for parents and teachers of elementary school children – American Psychological Association
- How to Keep Your Empathy Switched On – Greater Good Science Center