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Each year, more and more students are entering the school system having experienced different forms of trauma, such as violence, death, abuse, and illness. Children who are exposed to trauma run the risk of facing negative long-term effects that include mental illness, depression, and anxiety. This literature review provides an overview of how exposure to trauma affects children's mental health, as well as student learning and behaviour. Academic performance, school attendance, and overall intelligence are affected by exposure to trauma. Suggestions for supporting students with trauma exposure range from everyday interactions to intensive intervention programs, which include traditional and non-traditional practices as well as group and individual programs.

There is a correlation between the Levels of student achievement in formal Western schools and the levels of involvement that their parents have in this education. Many First Nations students have low levels of achievement, which can be attributed to a lack of parental involvement. The negative perception of school left behind from residential schools is often cited as a reason for this lack of involvement. Teachers and school leaders need to develop strategies to lessen these negative perceptions and encourage First Nations parents to become actively involved in their children's formal education. If the efforts of educators are successful, the low achievement rates of First Nations students will rise.