School Climate

Improve school climate by promoting a sense of caring and connection between students and in-school staff through disciplinary practices and policies that are inclusive and ensure students stay in school through to graduation.

A positive school environment that is safe, supportive, and inclusive is essential for student success. Many young people leave high school for disciplinary reasons that stem from impacts of the non-academic aspects of their lives. Based on research, when schools reduce suspensions and expulsions they are more likely to be characterized by improved interpersonal relationships among teachers, students, and families.

Trainings and workshops for school leaders about alternatives to exclusionary practices can support improved interactions between at-risk students and in-school staff. Trainings and workshops may include evidence-based, multi-tiered behavioral frameworks (e.g., positive behavioral interventions and supports, social and emotional learning), and restorative justice practices.
Support services such as mental health counseling, pathways counseling, and restorative justice can improve interactions between at-risk youth and the systems that serve them.
Trauma-informed practices can modify student-staff interactions to account for the needs of students by keeping rather than removing young people from the classroom or school

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Related News

May 17, 2019

VIDEO: Lessons from School District Leaders—Transforming School Climate Through Restorative Practices and Social Emotional Strategies

Join two School District of University leaders – Gary Spiller, executive director of the Office of Student Support and Innovative Services, and Nancy Cambria, director of communications – as they discuss the district’s use of social-emotional practices, prioritization of youth voice, and its emphasis on supporting the health and well-being of all children.

Wednesday, September 5, 2018

The Link Between Suspensions, Expulsions, and Dropout Rates

A preponderance of research shows that suspensions and expulsions do little to change behavior and can push students out of school altogether. For instance, being suspended just one time in the ninth grade is related to an increased risk of dropping out. Suspension can increase the chance of leaving school prior to graduation from 16 percent to a 32 percent.

Attendance

Woman holding up sign for support of Title IX

July 12, 2018

Seven Questions About Title IX, Answered

Although sexual misconduct remains alarmingly pervasive in K-12 education, many schools, students, parents, and organizations aren’t aware of their responsibilities and individuals’ rights under Title IX. Here’s an overview on how Title IX applies to K-12 programs.

Health and Wellness

Thursday, May 31, 2018

Youth Voice: How Limited Representation of Black Men Almost Limited My Life

To make matters worse, coaches and peers encouraged me to continue playing sports because it could pay for my education. So I spent countless hours and days training and practicing in different sports, hoping to land an athletic scholarship…which took away from any participation in extracurricular activities and volunteering experience that aligns with my current career aspirations.

Health and Wellness Attendance College & Career

Disciplined and Disconnected

Wednesday, July 11, 2018

Disciplinary actions in schools often represent a missed opportunity. In many cases, the systems in place are purely reactive and lack a preventative component to address student behavior.…

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When Youth Feel Unsafe: Brief Insights on the Cognitive and Academic Effects of Exposure to Violence

Thursday, February 22, 2018

This Point of View brief from the Center for Promise provides research insights on a particularly timely topic - violence in America's schools - that is impacting young people in America. Learn more…

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