How Can We Cool the Fire?

Laci Galyen

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Scenarios to Solutions

Staff will identify common trauma triggers and practice trauma-informed de-escalation techniques through peer-led role-plays, leaving with concrete strategies to defuse tense situations and foster a safer school environment.

Understanding trauma triggers and mastering de-escalation is crucial for reducing conflict, supporting student well-being, and creating a positive school climate where all staff feel equipped to respond compassionately.

Audience

All School Staff

Time

45 minutes

Approach

Interactive peer-led role-plays with guided reflection

Materials

Trauma-Informed De-Escalation 101, and Trigger Mapping Role-Play

Prep

Prepare Materials and Space

10 minutes

Review the Trauma-Informed De-Escalation 101 slide deck thoroughly
Print and cut out the Trigger Mapping Role-Play scenario cards
Arrange seating in small clusters of 3–4 to facilitate peer role-plays
Test any A/V equipment for slide presentation

Step 1

Welcome & Objectives

5 minutes

Greet participants and introduce session goals
Share the agenda and set group norms for respect and confidentiality
Briefly define “trauma triggers” and “de-escalation techniques”

Step 2

Trauma Triggers Overview

10 minutes

Present key concepts from the Trauma-Informed De-Escalation 101 slide deck
Highlight common signs of trauma and typical trigger responses in students and staff
Invite 2–3 participants to share quick examples of observed triggers in their settings

Step 3

Peer Role-Play Activity

20 minutes

Divide staff into triads; assign roles: Observer, Triggered Staff, Supporter
Distribute one scenario card each from the Trigger Mapping Role-Play set
In each triad, run two 5-minute role-plays, rotating roles between rounds
Observers use a quick checklist to note effective strategies and areas for improvement

Step 4

Group Debrief

7 minutes

Reconvene as a whole group; ask one triad to model a strong de-escalation approach
Facilitate discussion: What worked? What felt challenging?
Capture key takeaways on a flip chart or whiteboard

Step 5

Reflection & Action Planning

3 minutes

Provide participants 2 minutes to jot down one specific de-escalation technique they will apply this week
Encourage pairing up for accountability and sharing commitments
Thank everyone and share next steps for ongoing support

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