The overarching goal of schools is to create a safe, supportive environment where students can thrive and learn. This begins with a dedication to students' social and emotional well-being, and effective policies and programs that create a culture of trust. Such a culture provides an optimal learning environment, and is also a proactive step…

As advocates for children and youth with exceptionalities, the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) recognizes the influence a safe and positive school and community climate has on meeting the promises made in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The CEC is committed to upholding the dignity and worth of all individuals with…

In a pre-emptive move against a school safety proposal from the National Rifle Association that is expected to include a call for more people trained and approved to carry guns at schools, a coalition of civil rights and education groups unveiled its own safety plan last week. It seeks the creation of positive school climates, thoughtful and…

Developing positive school climates and improving school discipline policies and practices are critical steps to raising academic achievement and supporting student success. However, there is no single formula for doing so. Rather, the growing body of research and best practices in the field should inform locally developed approaches to improving…

Safety in New Mexico's schools is one of the most important issues facing our communities. Every school and school district in the state make it a priority to identify and implement ways to increase the safety, security and integrity of students, teachers, staff, parents and visitors at our schools on a daily basis. Safety is critical for…

In response to reports of school violence, the Lawrence Township (Indiana) Metropolitan School District adopted a S.A.F.E. (Security Action Follow-up Enforcement) policy based on prevention, intervention, and education. The program models school policing to provide school safety, security, and supervision for high school students and staff. The…

School buildings ideally would have few exterior access points, no isolated hallways, and sunlit classrooms. A safety checklist recommends locating offices near main doors, monitoring hallway traffic, enhancing communications, updating crisis-management plans, teaching coping skills, standardizing dismissal policies, and ensuring legal compliance…

This text/CD-ROM package prepares future educators to teach physical education using a student-focused, developmentally appropriate approach. There are 26 chapters in 6 parts. Part 1, "The Learner," includes "An Overview of Developmental Physical Education"; "Childhood Growth and Motor Development"; "Movement Skill Acquisition"; "Physical Activity…