Each September, children load up their backpacks, leave their seemingly happy homes, and head back to school. Society shifts its focus to learning, structure, and fresh beginnings. For many families, the “Back to School” season represents hope and opportunity. It’s a return to routine, social connections, and safe learning environments. But for far too many other families, this time of the year reveals a darker reality. It’s a reminder that many children are coming from homes that are not always happy or safe.
The Second Step has the expertise and tools to support individuals experiencing abuse. However, we rely on school systems and communities across Massachusetts to observe and recognize signs of abuse, especially when children are affected
The Overlap: Why “Back to School” Is a Critical Time for Survivors
- School is a Lifeline for Some Children –
- For children experiencing abuse at home, school can be more than education—it can be a lifeline. It offers safety, stability, meals, and caring adults who notice signs of distress. In summer, reports of child abuse often decline, not because violence stops, but because children are cut off from teachers and staff who are mandated reporters. When school resumes, disclosures rise as kids reconnect with trusted adults trained to spot warning signs.
- Survivors May Use the School Year to Plan an Exit –
- The Second Step knows that many survivors stay in abusive relationships for the sake of their children. The start of the school year can provide structure, making it a safer window to seek help, gather documents, meet with an advocate, or connect with legal resources.
It’s important that we all understand the impact domestic violence has on the youngest in the household. At The Second Step, we know that children who live with domestic violence often carry invisible burdens into the classroom. Teachers may notice:
- Sudden changes in behavior or mood
- Difficulty concentrating
- Chronic absenteeism or tardiness
- Over-responsibility (trying to “parent” siblings)
- Signs of physical injury or neglect
According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, more than 15 million children in the U.S. (about twice the population of New Jersey) live in homes where intimate partner violence occurred at least once in the past year. Exposure to violence, especially in early childhood, can have long-lasting impacts on brain development, learning capacity, and social-emotional health. Without support, these effects can go far beyond school, extending into adulthood, relationships, employment, and even next-generation parenting.
Calls to Action: How Schools Can Help
1. Train Educators and Staff –
Schools should train all staff—including bus drivers and front office personnel—in trauma-informed practices and teach them to recognize the signs of abuse Knowing how to respond appropriately and compassionately can make a tremendous difference. What this looks like:
- Recognizing behavioral red flags
- Understanding mandated reporting laws
- Responding without judgment or interrogation
- Knowing local domestic violence hotlines and resources
2. Establish Safe Reporting Channels –
Students and parents should be made aware of how to seek help safely. Schools can share domestic violence hotline numbers discreetly in bathrooms, newsletters, or resource packets. Having private conversations with school counselors should be easy and non-stigmatizing.
3. Partner with Local Organizations –
Community-based domestic violence organizations, such as The Second Step, can provide training, resources, and on-site support. They may offer:
- Legal advocacy and representation
- Trauma-informed support and case management
- Help with safety planning
- Housing stability advocacy and resources
Schools should have strong relationships with these organizations and include their materials in back-to-school packets or on websites.
4. Support Parents Without Judgment–
It’s important to avoid victim-blaming. Survivors often fear they’ll be judged as “bad parents” or risk losing custody if they come forward. We ask that schools foster a culture of compassion by:
- Using non-threatening language
- Offering flexible attendance policies during family crises
- Providing access to parenting support groups
Calls to Action: How You Can Help
5. Educate Yourself and Others –
Learn the signs of domestic violence and understand how it affects both adults and children. The Second Step has many helpful resources listed on our website. We offer trainings and workshops regularly. Below are a few other resources:
- National Domestic Violence Hotline
- Love is Respect (organization focused on teen dating violence)
- One Love Foundation
6. Ask Your School What Supports Are in Place –
Are staff trained in trauma-informed care? Are counselors equipped to respond if a student or parent discloses abuse at home? Are they currently partnering or collaborating with a local domestic violence organization such as The Second Step? If not, advocate for it.
7. Support a Local Domestic Violence Agency –
If you don’t know where your local domestic violence agency is located and what services they offer, find out! Supporting them with your time and resources is a great way to make an impact on survivors and their families.
- Consider making a financial contribution
- Donate gas or grocery gift cards for survivors
- Volunteer your time or skills
- Organize or attend a house party to raise awareness in your neighborhood
If you’re interested in supporting The Second Step, reach out for additional information on ways to help.
8. Believe Survivors –
If someone tells you they are being abused, believe them. Support them. Help them find resources. Silence and doubt often keep survivors trapped. Your belief could be a turning point.
Final Thoughts: Let’s Redefine What “Back to School” Means
Back to School season is about more than pencils and lesson plans. It’s about safeguarding the well-being of the children and families behind the classroom doors. This September, join The Second Step to expand the narrative. Let’s make sure that every child walking into a school building is not just ready to learn, but is also safe, seen, and supported. Let’s work together to ensure that every parent navigating the complexities of domestic violence feels less alone and more empowered to seek help.