Building resilience in students impacted by adverse childhood experiences: A whole-staff approach Victoria E. Romero, Ricky Robertson, and Amber Warner (2018). Thousand Oaks, CA: Corwin, 248 pp.

Abstract

In May and August of last year, the NYSED issued press releases that offered new guidance and
resources to help schools implement practices that focus on educating the whole child through renewed
emphasis on social emotional learning. This Materials Review presents one such resource, Building
Resilience in Students Impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Whole-Staff Approach by Victoria E.
Romero, Ricky Robertson, and Amber Warner (2018), which can assist schools, teachers, and students in
responding to what is termed an “adverse childhood experience (ACE).” The authors point out the
estimate that 46% of all schoolchildren have experienced at least one ACE and that this percentage is
increasing with the growing numbers of students living in poverty, which is highly correlated with ACEs.
Their book seeks to address this crisis. Although it is intended for all schools and all children, it is
particularly relevant to TESOL professionals at schools with many immigrant and refugee children, who are
likely to have experienced ACEs. Thus, this book, which offers ways to help all students build resilience and
achieve success in school and life, is a strong support for all who work with English language learners.