Making teachers feel valued might be the solution to keeping them

Despite being a largely divided issue, studies show that students at schools that participate in lockdown drills and training report being less fearful of school shootings over time. Currently, 95% of kindergarten through 12th-grade schools across the country participate in some form of mandatory lockdown drill or training that is designed to teach students and staff what to do if there’s an active shooter in the building.

The Bunmi Adedayo Foundation trains public primary school teachers in new methods and boosts their morale to improve their skills and provide students with a higher quality of education.

A pilot program, organized by the Consortium Partnership Network, seeks to improve school outcomes by shifting key decisions to staff inside the school, which schools remain under district supervision. The schools also partner with a nonprofit to provide technological support and bring in philanthropic dollars. The partially autonomous governance model is supported by the teacher’s union and has improved teaching-focused aspects as well as programs addressing the mental health, clothing, and food needs of students.

A program in Baltimore bring youths together with volunteer second “families” to help guide them through turbulent times.

The Phoenix School of Discovery is an alternative school designed for students with learning and social challenges, with roughly half of students on an individualized education plan, or IEP. The school prioritizes hands-on learning, has multiple teachers in each classroom, and offers accommodations like sensory-friendly lighting and a space for “quiet lunch” for students who find the traditional cafeteria over-stimulating.

In response to growing political polarization and controversial policies on local NYC school councils, grassroots community groups such as "the Aunties" have mobilized parent engagement through organized protests, canvassing and digital activism. Their efforts have notably raised community awareness, significantly increased parent participation at public council meetings, and compelled influential groups to reconsider key candidate endorsements.

Teachers are leaving the profession at high rates in the United States, citing a lack of support, stress, and low pay. Therefore, increasing support from administrators and focusing on teachers’ overall well-being might increase their likelihood of continuing to teach.

Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) are life-saving tools in sudden cardiac emergencies, but many students don’t know how to use them. After Michael T. Ellessar, a Massachusetts high school student, died suddenly of cardiac arrest at a high school football game, “Michael’s Law” was passed, requiring schools to practice their cardiac response throughout the year. Several other organizations and legislation have emerged to increase AED presence and use in schools, as only five states currently have mandated AED drills.

Theodore Roosevelt Highschool in Des Moines, Iowa, transitioned from employing armed school resource officers to a restorative practices team to prevent and mediate violence with proactive support instead of immediate punishment.

A public high school in Brooklyn, New York, hosts an annual camping trip for students to come out of their shells and get to know their peers and teachers over the course of several days of outdoor activities.