School Culture and Climate

Managing disruptive, aggressive and violent behavior has become an essential skill relevant to all school personnel. Staff members need safe, effective behavior management training designed to maintain the care, welfare, safety and security of all involved in a crisis. The primary focus of this two-day training is to help school staff identify the different levels of behavior typically exhibited by students in crisis.

This highly interactive, hands-on training provides participants with opportunities to practice verbal and physical intervention skills that can be effectively applied to real life situations. Upon successful completion of a post-test, participants receive a one year certification in Nonviolent Crisis Intervention® from the Crisis Prevention Institute.

The New York State Dignity for All Students Act 

Expanding the concepts of tolerance, respect for others, and dignity.

The New York State Dignity For All Students Act (Dignity Act) took effect on July 1, 2012. The goal of the Dignity Act is to create a safe and supportive school climate where students can learn and focus, rather than fear being discriminated against and/or verbally and/or physically harassed.

All public elementary and secondary school students have the right to attend school in a safe, welcoming, considerate and caring environment. The Act states that no student will be subjected to harassment or discrimination by employees or students on school property or at a school function based on their actual or perceived race, color, weight, national origin, ethnic group, religion, religious practice, disability, sexual orientation, gender or sex.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Dignity Act

Q - Who is protected by the Act?
A - ALL public elementary and secondary school students are protected by the Dignity Act.

Q - What does the Dignity Act prohibit?
A - It prohibits the harassment and discrimination of students by students and by school personnel.

Q - How does the Dignity Act relate to bullying and hazing?
A - Bullying and hazing are forms of harassment and discrimination.

Q - What physical spaces are covered by the Dignity Act?

A - The Dignity Act applies to behavior on school property (including athletic fields, playgrounds and parking lots), in school buildings, on a school bus/vehicle, as well as at school-sponsored events or activities.

For more information about the Dignity for All Students Act, check out any of the helpful links and documents below:

For additional information, go to: http://www.p12.nysed.gov/dignityact/