Bringing Grief Support into Schools and Communities

For many young people, school is the place where grief shows up most. It can appear in the classroom, the cafeteria, and the hallways. That’s why our School and Community Partnerships team brings grief support directly into schools and community spaces, making sure students can access care in the places where they already spend their days.

This past year, TCR’s School and Community team led 21 school-and community-based groups, serving 133 students across 15 partner communities. Behind those numbers are children and teens who might otherwise feel unseen in their grief—but instead found connection, courage, and hope.

“This place makes you feel like home, and you can trust them with everything you feel.” – Middle School Student.

What It Looks Like in the Room

Each group has moments that stay with you. A brave first share. A spark of recognition when one student realizes another “gets it.”

Corina Garcia-Reyes, Program Coordinator for Outreach, Schools and Communities, recalled a Chelsea middle school student’s reflection after their very first session, “I appreciate my school having this group so I can share my feelings and not feel like everything is contained in one jar. I feel safe to share my thoughts here.”

Another unforgettable moment came when two students at the same school, both grieving the death of their mothers, met for the first time in a group. Through shared stories and quiet understanding, they formed a deep bond. From that day on, they left every session side by side.

At the high school level, the connection looks similar. As one student put it, “I can talk about my opinions about loss with others who know what I’m talking about.” – High School Student.

Claire Blackford, Program Coordinator for Schools and Community, explained how two students with very different experiences of grief found common ground. “At TCR, we are intentional with our language and activities to make sure everyone feels safe and empowered to authentically share,” Claire said. “Not all peers can relate, but in our groups, students find others who can listen with empathy and understanding.”

The Ripple Effect

The impact of these groups does not end when the session does. Teachers and counselors often tell us they feel more confident supporting grieving students after partnering with TCR.

Corina remembered a middle school social worker who said, “I now feel more comfortable engaging in conversations about death and loss without feeling overwhelmed or weighed down.”

Educators also notice changes among their students. One counselor shared how new friendships formed across grades carried into daily school life. Another noticed, “Students in the group needed less behavioral support during the weeks the group was active.”

A long-time elementary school partner put it best, “Students who have participated in the program hold onto their experiences and talk about them with me. It creates a special connection between me, the students, and the other group members. The supportive adults in their lives are so happy knowing they are in a safe environment to discuss something so sensitive.”

A Growing Need, A Growing Response

The need for grief-informed care continues to grow across Massachusetts. Schools not only invite us back year after year, but they also provide a valuable learning experience. They also encourage their peers to bring TCR in as well.

Claire shared how a partner at Salem High School spoke with other schools about the impact she had witnessed. This inspired one of them to start their own group. Corina reflected on another partner who adapted her approach each year to meet the unique needs of students. “It was a reminder of how important it is to meet each child where they are.”

This momentum reflects a truth we hear again and again. Grief is everywhere, and communities need tools to respond with care.

Grief can be isolating. But when schools and communities open their doors to support, children and teens discover they are not alone. They learn that their experiences are valid, seen, and held with compassion.

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If you’re part of a school, community organization, or youth-serving program, TCR would love to partner with you. Reach out to us at info@childrensroom.org to start the conversation.