Voices from the Field

The program builds community—in the classroom, across grades, schoolwide, and with families. And that sense of community is instrumental in students’ academic, social, and ethical development. When students feel safe in school, they can explore new ideas without the fear of making mistakes. When they learn the skills of listening and reaching agreement, they are able to consider different points of view, support their own reasoning, ask questions, and go deeper into what they are learning.

Here’s what teachers are saying about the impact of CSC in their school:

Creating an Environment for Learning

We came up with norms for the class—and one of them was to feel comfortable enough to take a risk. Now, even children who are struggling are able to step forward with an idea and know that the other kids are going to be there with support. It’s phenomenal to see—and it happens over and over again.

Students Enjoying School More

I’ve noticed the difference in my students’ behaviors and their general feelings about school as a result of our using this program. Their ability to relate to each other, solve conflicts, and support each other’s development is much greater—not to mention their simple enjoyment of school!

Feeling Safe to Express Ideas

There was never an idea that was put down. The children would say ‘I disagree with you, and this is why...,’ but they never made fun of someone’s idea. They knew that the classroom was theirs, and it depended on everyone being polite.

Students Solving Problems

My students are learning when to get adult help and when they can take care of a problem themselves. So if a situation arises on the playground or in class, they know how to listen to the other person and how to talk back in the appropriate way.

Helping to Develop a Feeling of Trust

The class meetings and buddy activities were meaningful for my students. I found that the subjects were relevant for the students and the related activities pushed the students to think. The format of the meetings presented the students a forum for discussion, while the creation and continued reference to the early agreements allowed the students to continue to develop a feeling of trust and safety as they expressed themselves openly.

Teachers Stepping Back More

If there’s a situation in the classroom, I step back and watch to see if the kids have the tools to resolve it themselves. I don’t need to interfere every time.

Helping to Build Community

The lessons are focused and topic specific. They have helped me look at my classroom makeup and build a community of trust, caring, understanding, independence, and interdependence.