Compounded with this, many African American educators like me are in constant fear of the risk factors of COVID-19 in our community.

State, district and school leaders should be ready to address the traumatic effects of COVID-19 on African American educators.

They can address this by implementing initiatives that support the mental health and wellbeing of all teachers and especially African American teachers.

Initiatives promoting mental health and wellness are crucial as teachers assist students in coping with their own traumas due to COVID-19.

As we all juggle the many uncertainties of this crisis, it is essential that districts begin to plan wellness initiatives that work to positively support all teachers and especially African American teachers.