Rules for Engagement
The Rules for Engagement blog explored the nonacademic issues that bear on students’ learning. This blog is no longer being updated, but you can continue to explore these issues on edweek.org by visiting our related topic pages: social-emotional learning, student well-being, and school climate.
School Climate & Safety
School Shootings: Sandy Hook Promise Ad Shares Warning Signs for Gun Violence
The Sandy Hook Promise released a powerful new ad this week with a surprise twist that calls on viewers to look for the early warning signs of gun violence.
School Climate & Safety
Justice Department on S.C. Suit: Broad Laws Fuel 'School-to-Prison Pipeline'
Vague state statutes that are subjectively used to arrest students contribute to the "school-to-prison pipeline," the Justice Department argued in a court case filed by South Carolina students that challenges two state statutes.
Equity & Diversity
LGBT Students: Five Possible Effects of Trump's Presidency, Ed. Secretary Choice
How will Donald Trump's stances on education, which stress a scaled back federal role, and the appointment of voucher advocate Betsy DeVos as education secretary affect LGBT students?
School Climate & Safety
After Chattanooga School Bus Crash, Officials Renew Push for Seat Belts
A deadly school bus crash in Chattanooga, Tenn., has rekindled a debate on seat belt mandates. Just six states have school bus seat belt requirements. Authorities have not yet concluded whether seat belts would have prevented injuries in the incident.
School Climate & Safety
Ban Corporal Punishment in Schools, Education Secretary Tells States
"The use of corporal punishment can hinder the creation of a positive school climate by focusing on punitive measures to address student misbehavior rather than positive behavioral interventions and supports," King wrote in a letter to state officials.
Student Well-Being & Movement
Troubled by Post-Election School Climate, K-12 Groups to Issue 'Call to Action'
Several national K-12 groups will encourage schools to respond to numerous reports of violence, harassment, and intimidation that have occurred since Donald Trump's presidential election by reaffirming "the inclusive values that are the foundation of healthy learning cultures."
Student Well-Being & Movement
High School Students Stage Walkouts, Protesting President-Elect Donald Trump
Students in several states have staged walkouts in the days since the election to protest President-elect Donald Trump.
School Climate & Safety
Superintendent's Retweet About Students' Post-Election Emotions Stirs Controversy
A Maryland lawmaker is pushing for a state ethics charge against Baltimore County Superintendent Dallas Dance after he retweeted a call for schools to protect "non-white students" the day after the election.
School Climate & Safety
Some Free Advice for Melania Trump on Fighting Cyberbullying
Melania Trump says cyberbullying would be her issue as first lady. Here's some research to get her up to speed on the issue.
School & District Management
Positive School Climates May Help Narrow Achievement Gaps, Analysis Finds
A research analysis finds links between improved school climate and the narrowing of achievement gaps for low-income students.
School & District Management
Black Students Less Likely to Be Disciplined by Black Teachers, Study Says
Students matched to a same-race teacher are less likely to be expelled, suspended, or assigned detention than students being taught by a different-race teacher, an analysis of North Carolina discipline data finds.
Equity & Diversity
Supreme Court to Hear Groundbreaking Transgender Student Case
The case, which centers on restroom access for a transgender Virginia student, could settle the issue for schools nationwide.
Student Well-Being & Movement
Chronic Absenteeism a Strong Choice for ESSA's 'Other Indicator,' Report Argues
ESSA calls for states to adopt another indicator for school accountability, in addition to students' academic achievement in math and language arts. Chronic absenteeism may be a good fit, finds a new policy analysis.
School Climate & Safety
Clinton Takes Aim at School Bullying With $500 Million Proposal
Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential nominee, is pitching a $500 million program to help states and schools combat bullying.