A Multilevel Approach for Assessing Needs and Supporting School Communities During the COVID-19 Pandemic : University, Schools, and Community Interconnections

Abstract

Abstract. The coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic poses significant challenges to the psychological resilience and well-being of school communities, while a disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups has been recognized. Adopting social justice principles in the implementation of school psychological services is needed to facilitate suitable support for all, in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of quality education, reduced inequality, and good health and well-being. In this article, a multilevel approach developed by the Laboratory of School Psychology, Department of Psychology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, to support schools during the pandemic is presented. This approach benefits from a holistic understanding of school community needs, necessary to provide tailored support, in line with SDGs within school communities. This approach could act as a paradigm of how University-based laboratories could support school communities during crises.

Impact and Implications.

The presented approach indicates the benefits of multilevel approaches based on social justice principles that accommodate children’s needs and promote quality education, health, and well-being for all during the pandemic, in line with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. This approach could act as an exemplar for university-based laboratories in supporting school communities in crisis situations.