Assessing the Impact of Racial Trauma in School Children

Abstract

The death of George Floyd in May 2020 heightened awareness of racial trauma, particularly among African American communities, and underscored the need for schools to address its psychological and academic effects on students of color. This study examines the impact of racial trauma on children in schools, explores its effects on mental health and academic performance, and evaluates culturally sensitive assessment tools such as the Race-Related Events Scale. The findings indicate that racial trauma significantly harms children’s mental well-being and academic success, emphasizing the need for reliable assessments to guide mental health professionals in providing practical support.