U.S. Department of Education Delivers on Key School Safety Report Recommendation

APRIL 10, 2019

Contact:   (202) 401-1576, press@ed.gov

WASHINGTON — Acting on the recommendations of the Federal Commission on School Safety, U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos today announced the release of the Parent and Educator Guide to School Climate Resources. This guide, produced jointly by the Department's Office of Elementary and Secondary Education and Office for Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, provides best practices and includes resources school leaders and teachers can utilize as they work to achieve a positive school climate, lower disciplinary issues and enhance school safety.

"We know that fostering a positive school climate is critical to the well-being, safety and long-term success of all students," said Secretary DeVos. "In the absence of a safe and positive learning environment, a student may feel disconnected, disregard consequences, and engage in bullying or other destructive behaviors. As teachers and school leaders assess the unique needs of their school communities, we hope this guide helps them make the decisions that are right for their students and also provides parents and guardians with effective tools to support teachers in making those decisions."

The Q&A document, which is available on the Department of Education's website, provides parents and educators with useful decision-making frameworks and implementation tools, as well as best practices that school leaders can consider as they work to foster positive and inclusive learning environments. Examples from schools across the country are included to illustrate the various interventions communities are employing to enhance student behavior and achievement. With recent research highlighting the importance of evaluating school climate through a range of indicators, the guide provides diagnostic tools so educators can collect and utilize data to drive their climate improvement strategy.

Additionally, the Parent and Educator Guide to School Climate Resources provides information to teachers and school leaders on how they can receive support from the Department's two technical assistance centers dedicated to promoting safe and supportive schools, including the National Center of Safe and Supportive Learning Environments (https://safesupportivelearning.ed.gov), and the Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Sup­ports (www.pbis.org). The guide includes an appendix of additional resources spanning the work of government agencies and private organizations, equipping parents and educators to create positive learning environments for all students.

To view the Parent and Educator Guide to School Climate Resources, click here.