Program Overview
Research shows that prolonged exposure to violence and trauma can seriously undermine a child’s ability to learn, form relationships, and focus appropriately in the classroom. The Focusing On Children Under Stress (FOCUS) Program is designed to decrease the effects of a child’s exposure to violence and trauma.
FOCUS supports children exposed to violence and trauma through improved communication and collaboration between first responders, schools, and community resources.
When a first responder encounters a child who may have been exposed to a traumatic event, that child’s information is included in a FOCUS notification through the FOCUS app and sent directly to the school district and school of attendance.
The school is alerted that the child may have been exposed to a traumatic incident and may exhibit or develop academic or behavioral problems. No incident details are shared, only the request to focus on the child and handle them with care.
Our Philosophy
The goal of the FOCUS Program is for children to succeed to the best of their ability, regardless of the environment they live in.
Our History
FOCUS was modeled after the West Virginia Handle With Care Program. While the concept did not begin here, the program has been adapted to serve local schools, first responders, and families in California.
