California Safe and Supportive Schools

Caring Relationships and High Expectations

What Works Brief

Caring Relationships and High Expectations

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The quality of relationships at school are some of the strongest predictors of student academic achievement and teacher career satisfaction. When teachers, coaches, and other school staff feel engaged and supported themselves, they are more likely to cultivate caring and supportive relationships with students. When students have meaningful relationships with educators and peers, they benefit academically, socially, and emotionally. This What Works Brief provides research-based strategies for building and maintaining rewarding relationships with students, including:

  • Making connections with students
  • Being helpful and non-directive
  • Focusing on growth
  • Supporting students’ peer relationships

Developed through the California Safe and Supportive Schools (S3) Grant, What Works Briefs summarize best practices, strategies, and programs for improving school climate. Based on research and grounded in experience, each brief provides practical recommendations for school staff, families, and community members. They are organized into three sections:

  • Quick Wins: What Teachers and Adults Can Do Right Now
  • Universal Supports: Schoolwide Policies, Practices, and Programs
  • Targeted Supports: Intensive Supports for At-Risk Youth

Physical and Emotional Violence Perpetration

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Many schools have instituted various safety practices that research has shown to be ineffective or even harmful. Effective evidence-based strategies that reduce rates of physical and emotional violence all have a common denominator that includes non-punitive, restorative prevention and intervention practices. This What Works Brief provides evidence-based strategies that educators, families, and community members can use to:

  • Implement positive and restorative behavior policies and practices
  • Provide clear, consistent, and culturally relevant expectations
  • Reflect on existing discipline procedures

Developed through the California Safe and Supportive Schools (S3) Grant, What Works Briefs summarize best practices, strategies, and programs for improving school climate. Based on research and grounded in experience, each brief provides practical recommendations for school staff, families, and community members. They are organized into three sections:

  • Quick Wins: What Teachers and Adults Can Do Right Now
  • Universal Supports: Schoolwide Policies, Practices, and Programs
  • Targeted Supports: Intensive Supports for At-Risk Youth