Whitworth Introduces Groundbreaking In-Person Master’s Program Addressing Educator Burnout and Student Well-Being

Whitworth University is redefining graduate education FOR educators with the launch of its Master of Education in Trauma-Informed Social Emotional Learning (SEL), the only in-person master’s degree program currently offered by Whitworth for teachers who are already certified and one of the only programs of its kind in the region and across the nation.  

Designed for educators seeking both professional growth and personal resilience, the program uniquely integrates trauma-informed practices, embodied social emotional learning, and faith-centered reflection.

Renee’ Schoening, Ed.D., LCPC, LMFT, director of Whitworth’s school counseling and trauma-informed SEL graduate programs, is an innovator in educator well-being. She has pioneered successful, first-of-their-kind programs that are reshaping how teachers are trained and supported nationwide. Throughout her career, Schoening has focused on equipping educators with practical, research-based tools to protect their mental health, build resilience and prevent burnout. She led the “Whitworth Cares” educator wellness retreat in December 2025, and the feedback she received reinforced that she was addressing a critical need. One attendee commented, “Please continue offering these services. They could literally save a teacher!”

“The success of students begins with the support of educators,” Schoening says. “When teachers are empowered, entire communities flourish. At Whitworth, we are committed to this important endeavor. The program was designed to equip, encourage and support those who have chosen one of society's most challenging and impactful professions."

This degree offers full- and part-time options, and students can complete it in as little as two years. The program offers an intentional design that prioritizes deep connection, collaboration and meaningful engagement, critical to a teacher’s well-being. Held in evening, face-to-face classes, the program provides a supportive environment where educators build lasting relationships with peers who share their passion and values. 

The M.Ed. in Trauma-Informed SEL is among a select number of programs nationwide that emphasizes embodied social emotional learning – a powerful, research-informed approach that moves beyond intellectual understanding to lived practice.

Participants develop skills they can immediately apply in their schools, including trauma-informed classroom strategies, emotional regulation and resilience-building techniques, and leadership in schoolwide SEL initiatives. By focusing on embodied learning, the program ensures that educators don’t just teach SEL – they live it, modeling resilience and well-being for their students.

The program also creates space for educators to explore how faith, vocation and community intersect in their work. This integration of shared values and purpose adds a distinctive layer of support, helping educators reconnect with the “why” behind their calling.

Graduates of the program will be positioned to lead meaningful, sustainable change in their schools – bringing trauma-informed, SEL-centered practices that positively impact both student outcomes and educator well-being.

The application deadline for this program is July 1, 2026. To apply, click here. 

About Whitworth University:

Located in Spokane, Wash., Whitworth is a private Christian liberal arts university affiliated with the Presbyterian church. The university, which has an enrollment of about 2,500 students, offers more than 100 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. 

Contacts: 

Trisha Coder, associate director of media relations, Whitworth University, (509) 777-4703 or tcoder@whitworth.edu.