Students on the California Center for School Climate Youth Advisory Team describe their perspectives on school safety in this audiocast: “Physical safety is not having to worry about your health when you go to school, not having to worry about bullying or other types of abuse or, especially in this day and age, school shootings.” Hear what other youth have to say.

A recent article by Professor Ben Fisher of the University of Wisconsin and experts from WestEd's Justice and Prevention Research Center examines school-based law enforcement strategies. “Investing in evidence-based strategies, such as school climate improvement designed to prevent problematic behaviors and improve school safety, could yield more positive outcomes,” says Fisher.

This report uses data from interviews with key education leaders from a variety of states who have engaged with the services of a State School Safety Center (SSSC). It also draws on a survey of superintendents and principals in states with an SSSC.

Join the California Center for School Climate on Thursday, February 29, for a free full-day virtual gathering to reflect on and adapt current school climate initiatives to better serve school communities. Sessions will explore educator well-being, the importance of partnerships, and more.

Physical classroom environments are a learning space's overall design, layout, and content—and can have a dramatic impact on climate. This checklist helps educators create safe and supportive physical classroom environments that support student well-being and success.

This Leading Voices Podcast episode explores how a positive school climate affects student outcomes. The episode centers student voices on helping improve school climate, what school personnel can do to create a supportive environment, and more.

Efforts to improve school climate can face resistance from school staff. This guide explores common reasons for lack of staff buy-in and offers strategies for getting staff interested and engaged.

Coauthored and reviewed by the California Center for School Climate’s Youth Advisory Team, this toolkit provides classroom-based activities that help staff and elementary and secondary students develop positive relationships.