For schools

Programs and resources to support school communities and grieving students

Whether children are exposed to a singular loss of a family member, peer or teacher, or the entire school is witness to a national tragedy, schools are ideally positioned to partner with families and communities to support children during these difficult times.

Teachers can be among the strongest advocates for bereaved students and families, and schools can serve as a safe space for students. As the first line of defense, educators see children each day in a consistent and structured environment. They are a critical element facilitating healing from grief after a death.


Father and daughter drawing
Father and daughter drawing

Teacher working with teenage students

children in school
children in school

Elderly women working on computer.

The Coalition to Support Grieving Students

Pioneering collaboration among the leading K-12 professional organizations who worked together to produce industry endorsed, educator-specific grief resources and training materials.

Learn more

Alliance for Young Artists and Writers

Recognizing that a creative outlet can provide a safe space to teens who are trying to cope with the death of a loved one, the Foundation in partnership with the Alliance for Young Artists and Writers created the New York Life Award to recognize students in grades 7-12 who have explored grief or loss in their original works of art or writing.

Learn more

First Book

Together, the New York Life Foundation and First Book are equipping educators with resources to support children who are experiencing grief and loss.

Learn more

Grief-Sensitive Schools Initiative

Resources to help build a community's resilience.


Mom on bench with kids
Mom on bench with kids

Free materials for schools.

Download brochures and helpful tools to share with schools.