As violent conflicts continue in the Middle East following weekend attacks in Israel and airstrikes in Gaza, wide-reaching impacts are being felt by students and families across the United States.

Some education leaders may feel moved to share messages with students, families and employees about these current events. As aptly stated on the San Diego County Office of Education's Resources for Educators, Families to Discuss the Events in Israel and Gaza With Students web page, "Emotional and economic impacts can be felt at home by all, especially our young people and those with connections to the region. As educators, we must make sure we provide a safe space for all members of our community to learn about current events and process their emotions."

Below, NSPRA members can find a number of resources that may be helpful in planning such communications:

• How to Talk About the Israel-Hamas War: Resources for Educators (Education Week)
• Supporting Youth Affected by the Violence in Israel and Gaza: Tips for Families and Educators (National Association of School Psychologists) 2023
• Talking to Children About War (National Child Traumatic Stress Network)
• Helping Students in Troubling Times (American School Counselor Association)
• Responsible Media Coverage of Crisis Events Impacting Children and Youth (National Association of School Psychologists)
• Handle with Care: Supporting Young People During Crises (Learning for Justice)
• Communicating During a World Crisis Messaging Examples (NSPRA Samples and Resources)

Over the coming days, NSPRA members may also share local communication efforts and examples on NSPRA Connect, the association's members-only online community forum.

In addition, NSPRA provides members with samples and resources related to Supporting Democracy and Politics in Action and Demonstrations, Protests, Strikes and Walkouts. Resources on these pages include articles, webinars, school district examples and other resources to help communicators plan and respond to local protests, demonstrations or other civic action that can arise during challenging times.

NSPRA is here to help you and your district navigate these unsettling times. Please reach out to us if you need additional support at info@nspra.org.