Grief in the Classroom

This resource was created based on a study that used qualitative interviews with Millersville University faculty who have had experiences as teachers, administrators, and/or counselors dealing with students from birth-12th grade and loss, along with academic research, to share recommended practices for appropriately supporting students that are grieving.

As the literature and the interviews indicate, grief training appears to be minimal to nonexistent for teachers. This project aims to provide a resource for educators that fills that gap.

Regardless of students’ abilities and disabilities, it is crucial for teachers to have resources and training so that they can effectively meet their students’ individual needs. By providing educators information about grief, teachers can be prepared to support students that are experiencing a loss.

I am a Millersville University student studying Special Education and Elementary Education. This project was created through Millersville University's Research Fellows Program. I decided I wanted to investigate the topic of grief after volunteering at Hospice. Through that experience, I became aware that I was inadequately prepared to support my future students as they grieve. Although I believe experience is the best teacher, I have learned a lot through research and the interviews with Milllersville faculty.

I am thankful for Dr. Stephanie Pennucci, Dr. Charlton Wolfgang, and Dr. Elizabeth Powers. They have supported me throughout this project and made it possible!

They are exceptional people and I admire their wisdom.