Hello, everyone, 
This is a fascinating discussion, and I've enjoyed reading all of the perspectives you all have on this topic. When I was teaching adult education, I know I struggled with these same issues - how to bring up concerns, whether or not to bring up concerns, what to say about my concerns, what help to offer. I know there were times that I didn't bring up concerns because I was "just a teacher" and not a counselor. None of us are functioning as therapists when we say that we are concerned about someone. 

Most organizations that assist victims and survivors of domestic violence have a community outreach person or department who would be thrilled to come talk with your staff or your students about the dynamics of domestic violence and appropriate responses that do not compromise your role as "teacher, not therapist." Most organizations do not charge for these services and are happy to get the word out about this important issue. Some trainers will feel comfortable discussing what to do if abusers are in the classroom along with victims (either their own victims or victims of other abusers), but it would be wise to check that out first. Rape Crisis Centers also offer these kinds of opportunities if you are interested in learning about sexual violence outside of domestic violence, too. 

Some of the help you can offer may be as simple as listening and believing, offering the number to the local shelter/hotline/service agency, offering a safe place to make phone calls, or offering to make copies of important papers. It may be as simple as establishing your offices and classrooms as violence-free spaces. I think that we too often think this isn't our business, our job, or our role, but in order for violence against women to end, we all must care and act to stop it. 

Be well, and stay safe -
Karen

Karen Wyman
Community Outreach Trainer
New Mexico Coalition Against Domestic Violence  (NMCADV)
201 Coal Avenue SW
Albuquerque, NM 87102
phone 505.246.9240
fax 505.246.9434
www.nmcadv.org
karenw at nmcadv.org

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