A simple "FOCUS Notification" alerts the school that this child may have been exposed to a traumatic incident (i.e. domestic violence, child abuse, death in the family, witness to a crime, loss of home due to a house fire, etc.) and may exhibit or develop academic/behavioral problems.  No specific details about the incident are given, just one simple request:  To focus on the child and handle them with care.

A designated school official will receive the notification and alert the child's teacher.  The teacher will observe the child's behavior/academic performance, and utilize trauma-sensitive interventions as deemed appropriate.  If the child exhibits any problems, the teacher will address the issue or refer the child to the school counselor.

If a first responder encounters a child that may have been exposed to a traumatic event, that child's information is included in a FOCUS Notification that is sent out to Stanislaus Drug Enforcement Agency (SDEA).  The SDEA Prevention/Education liaison will forward the notification to the designated school official as soon as possible.

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.