Our Watch’s Post

Delving into the complexities of school expulsions: why educators should carefully consider alternatives. Join us as we explore the impact and potential consequences. https://hubs.la/Q02x1KsX0 #SchoolDiscipline #StudentSupport #EducationPolicy #SchoolCulture

Complex issues rarely have simple answers! Student a) bounces around to different schools, never settles, never builds relationships and develops learned helplessness in their education and we expect them to magically fit in to the “right” schooling/vocational environment. Student b) is moved on to another school after causing significant harm to the community whether that’s over a short term or long term. Respite for the community and family can occur and a new start for the student can occur without prejudice or bias. I’ve spoken to “student b’s” who have said being “moved on” to another school was the best thing that happened to them because they had a fresh start and it helped them to make changes. I’ve also encountered “student a’s” who require high levels of support just to feel like a school is a safe place for them. More often than not it’s the restorative educational process leading up to the expulsion and the support provided to the student and family throughout this time that makes a difference. How we support a student in transitioning to another school will always determines this level of success. In short, these decisions are rarely black and white and we won’t always nail it perfectly! Doing what’s best for a community of staff and other students while supporting an individual to be happy, healthy and educated is never a clear cut process and decision. But doing it with clarity, honesty and communication always supports a family to understand “where to next”.

"The Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) of 2022 provides historic funding to support State educational agencies (SEAs), local educational agencies (LEAs), and schools in establishing safe, healthy, and supportive learning opportunities and environments. This includes $1 billion through Title IV, Part A of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) for SEAs to competitively award sub-grants to high-need LEAs to establish safer and healthier learning environments and to prevent and respond to acts of bullying, violence, and hate that impact our school communities at individual and systemic levels, among other programs and activities." https://lnkd.in/egCsQn53

Toronto is attempting to normalize heart attacks in your children. IYKYK. Disclaimer: This content is in part for educational purposes. I unequivocally denounce any form of violence, hate, harassment, or bullying. This page does not endorse or promote dangerous acts, organizations, or any forms of violence. In accordance with the 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, this content is made available for "fair use" purposes, including criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education, and research.

As antisemitism continues to surge across the globe, education remains an essential tool to counter this hatred with young people. Explore our "Gringlas Unit on Contemporary Antisemitism" to learn how to deliver accurate and sensitive instruction on this topic and increase students’ understanding of the dangers of this hate and what they can do to prevent it from escalating. https://hubs.li/Q02yD9L90

High Schools and Middle Schools need to change to provide a school experience to adolescents that is focused equally on cognitive development and social-emotional development. We cannot do one without the other. This LPI report, along with many others, provides concrete steps and examples that all schools could take RIGHT NOW and change the lives of students and educators.

Today, many young people use digital platforms to communicate and express their emotions, but too often these spaces become breeding grounds for hatred, verbal attacks, and online harassment. This kind of influence can deepen feelings of insecurity, isolation, and aggression, pushing young people to view violence as a means of self-defense or expression. Parents and teachers are not always equipped to provide the necessary support to young people going through difficult times. Without continuous education in open communication, tolerance, and peaceful conflict resolution, the risk of violence will continue to rise. We cannot continue to allow such tragedies to unfold without breaking this cycle of violence and misunderstanding. “We cannot solve our pain and problems in the same way we created them.” This is a call for reflection and a shift in how we, as a society, approach education, values, and the support we offer to young people. It is unforgivable that such a tragic event took place yesterday, where a 14-year-old boy lost his life in a brutal act of violence, being fatally stabbed by his peer. 🕯️

According to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, children have the right to protection from all forms of violence. But when violence occurs in schools, the effects can be devastating: 📍Fear and trauma hinder emotional development. 📍Disrupted learning and reduced academic performance. 📍Long-term psychological scars that affect social well-being. What can we do? Effective strategies like conflict resolution programs, teacher training, and meaningful child participation are proven to create safer learning environments. How can schools better uphold children's rights and prevent violence? Share your thoughts in the comments! Together, we can safeguard every child’s right to a violence-free education.

#Education #Peace Here are some ways that education can help promote peace: Build confidence Education can help people feel a sense of accomplishment and self-assuredness, which can lead to confidence. Develop skills Education can provide people with the skills and knowledge to resolve conflicts, reduce prejudice, and build a culture of tolerance. Promote critical thinking Education can help students reflect on their assumptions and beliefs, and develop new ways to solve problems. Prevent violence Education can help prevent violence by addressing the root causes of discord.

"Because attacks on education are igniting around the country, experts say local mobilization is key. Student, parent, and community groups have already been instrumental in challenging school boards and administrators to resist book and subject-matter bans." 📖 Experts find that politically motivated bans in education, on topics like SEL, rob students of opportunity and foster a climate of fear in schools. Read more from the American Psychological Association: https://lnkd.in/ey46B4Hh #Education #censorship #freedom #ResearchWednesdays #SocialandEmotionalLearning