Aspen is a place for leaders to lift their sights above the possessions which possess them. To confront their own nature as human beings, to regain control over their own humanity by becoming more self-aware, more self-correcting, and hence more self-fulfilling.
Walter P. Paepcke, Aspen Institute Co-Founder
Aspen Institute
Blog Posts, and Publications
Caring Communities: Linking School Culture and Student Development
July 26, 2018
National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development
The fourth case study from the Aspen Institute National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development discusses the relationship between school climate and culture and social, emotional, and academic development. “Caring Communities: Linking School Culture and Student Development” highlights intentional approaches to creating safe and supportive school climates, with a special focus on Kellison Elementary School in Fenton, Mo.
The case study also describes approaches by high schools >across the country, including Damonte Ranch High School in Washoe County, Nev., which builds relationships with students through advisory groups; John Hancock College Preparatory High School in Chicago, which has partnered with community organizations to help transform its school culture and climate and improve students’ social, emotional, and academic skills; and Westbrook High School in Westbrook, Conn., which focuses on building students’ leadership skills and voice to improve school climate.
Shows how schools and educators enhance learning when they teach a curriculum that simultaneously builds students’ social, emotional, and academic understanding.
Highlights the need for teacher preparation and professional learning to both build teachers’ own social and emotional competence and prepare teachers to foster these skills in their students.
The four-part case study series will explore these topics: Using a curriculum that simultaneously builds students’ social, emotional, and academic understanding, Ensuring that teachers are prepared to promote students’ comprehensive development, Promoting a positive school climate and culture, and Partnering with the broader community to support students.
