The Safe Measures(TM) YPAR Process

Unlock the transformative power of our unique Safe Measures(TM) YPAR process. We work with partner schools to build support from school leaders, buy-in from teachers and staff, and the creation of a diverse student leadership team. Members of this student team are empowered to work as “action researchers” who work collaboratively with teachers and peers to make measurable improvement in school safety, student discipline and support systems, respectful relationships, student agency and engagement in learning, civic engagement, and service to others.

Build Relationships and Support

We start by building support from school leaders, buy-in from teachers and staff, and creating a diverse student leadership team who have social connections to as many peer groups within the school as possible. Each member of the Student Leadership Team has a unique perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of their school, for students like themselves, which makes them ‘experts” in their own right, on the climateand culture of their school.

Collect Meaningful Data from Everyone

Members of this carefully chosen team are empowered to work as “action researchers” who collect rigorous qualitative and quantitative school culture and climate data from students, teachers, staff, parents and school leaders. These students then analyze these data, set their leadership goals, and develop powerful data-driven action plans and exciting action projects that bring students and peer, and teachers and students together around their common goals.

Fun, Learning and Action

CSCL staff shares a wealth of fun, engaging and academically powerful ”sweet-spot action projects”, (like Someday Wishes, Hidden Gems, Micro-adventures, Bright Spots, and many others) that align with each school’s leadership and instructional goals. We also help teams create new action projects based on their school’s unique strengths and needs. These action projects help everyone learn new approaches to solving age-old problems. They facilitate school-wide engagement, support teacher experimentation with new teaching and learning practices, and shift the mindsets and norms of the school culture to create safer, more engaging, more respectful and equitable schools.

The Power of Student and Teacher Voice

Through a two-year commitment to sustaining their leadership and action projects, the student team and their adult partners make measurable pre-post improvements in school safety, student discipline and support systems, respectful relationships, student agency, teacher efficacy, and engagement in learning, civic engagement, and service to others. Our 20 years of experience and independent research has demonstrated that when the Safe Measures YPAR process is implemented with fidelity it improves school culture, school climate, student voice, school discipline, student and teacher collaboration and morale, and student academic learning.

What We Hear After the Safe Measures (TM) Process:

“This work made me remember why I got into teaching in the first place.”

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“This work made me remember why I got into teaching in the first place.” *

— Teacher

“I never knew I could be a leader, until they picked me to be part of the Student Leadership Team.”

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“I never knew I could be a leader, until they picked me to be part of the Student Leadership Team.” *

— Student

“We saw our school’s test scores go up over 10% in the last three years, and we know that these changes are connected to this work we have been doing with our students and teachers to improve our school culture and climate.”

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“We saw our school’s test scores go up over 10% in the last three years, and we know that these changes are connected to this work we have been doing with our students and teachers to improve our school culture and climate.” *

— Administrator

What are the outcomes?

  • Measurably improved culture

    When YPAR is implemented, students play an active role in identifying and addressing issues within their school community. This approach fosters a sense of ownership and inclusivity, leading to a more positive and supportive school culture. By amplifying student voices, YPAR cultivates a collaborative environment where all stakeholders feel valued and invested in the school’s success.

  • Improved relationships

    YPAR bridges the gap between students and adults by creating opportunities for meaningful dialogue and collaboration. This process strengthens mutual respect and understanding, as students and adults work together toward shared goals. Additionally, the collaborative nature of YPAR encourages peer-to-peer connections, enhancing trust and camaraderie among students.

  • Improved academic performance

    Engaging in YPAR promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and research skills, which directly contribute to improved academic outcomes. By involving students in projects that are relevant to their lives and communities, YPAR enhances their engagement and motivation to learn. This approach also fosters a sense of purpose, helping students see the connection between their academic work and real-world impact.

How does it work?

Meaningful change takes work. The Safe Measures Process requires that schools make a two-year commitment. The process begins with data collection to Pre-assess your school’s culture and climate and ends with a Post assessment at the end of the second year of the program to document improvement.

Get started.

Let’s talk about how we can work together to improve your school’s culture.