Note: please note that this issue overview should (a) contain links to the issue briefs on this topic that are focused either the local, state, national, or global level, and (b) be neutrally presented, based on facts, and include footnotes for each of the items.  See the Research Guide and Information Sources to assist you. 

Goal Statement   one sentence that further defines the topic 

• For public schools actively to create a more welcoming, comfortable, and respectful environment by promoting civility, and in this way to close the educational achievement gaps.                                                                                                                                                              

Policy Options / Program Models   specific policies or program models, grouped by type, that are profiled 

• Early prevention to stop escalation towards higher levels of violence e.g. gun shooting thorough eliminating the use of negative language e.g. racial jokes and non-verbal behaviors e.g. a mugging face.  Fostering better mental health development and safer school communities to improve academic success by removing triggers and unhealthy emotional responses.

• Social capital enhancement programs or activities for students to increase access to role models, information, and support. Enactment of policies encouraging cross peer, teacher, and administrator network expansion to improving communication and information exchange patterns. E.g. college application process education to minority students.

• The term civility needs to be concretely defined in order to foster collaborative efforts in promoting civility systematically and successfully. Definition that extends beyond etiquette, polite manners, and respect, and inclusive of larger social phenomenon’s such as stereotypes. Reflection of the large and important roles race, gender, and religion play (identity).

• Civility initiatives/programs that actively recognize and eliminate racial inequalities, while also embracing differences and celebrating all cultures. Enabling each child to succeed by eliminating inequalities based in these factors.

Implementations of Models that Address the Environment to close the Achievement gap

• In Washington State an Ethnic Commission Achievement Gap Studies presents (now is available publically) achievement gap reports on students of color and recommendations to alleviate. Minority groups include: African American, Asian American, Latino, Pacific Islander, and Native Americans. Focused on five elements: School district and state education leadership, Teacher quality, Curriculum and instruction, Family and community engagement, and Student support. http://healthequity.wa.gov/Resources/index.htm
• In 2009 Washington State Closing the Achievement Gap was proposed to create a committee that would monitor progress toward eliminating the achievement gap based on reports released in order to provide all students an excellent and equitable education.

Issue Briefs   issue briefs on this topic at the local, state, national, global level

• Promoting Civility and Addressing Racism - USA

• Promoting Civility and Addressing Racism - Walla Walla, WA

Glossary of Terms   key words or phrases that the layperson needs to know to understand this issue 

• Civility: A key quality of a school’s general environment and interpersonal relationships that extend beyond respect, politeness, and courteous manner. The embracement and celebration of cultural differences AND actively eliminating racial inequalities through the creation of a welcoming, supportive, valued, comfortable, safe, and caring environment for everyone’s emotional well being.

  *Crucial elements include:

            A.    Interactive and interdependent community fostering respect

            B.    Collaborative, two-sided, reciprocal, and open relationship building

            C.    Embracement rather then tolerate diversity – celebrate cultural embracement

            D.    Recognition that racial identity affects perception and experiences

            E.    Recognize and strive to eliminate racial exclusion and inequality

            F.    Elimination of negative and positive judgments and stereotypes

            G.    Eliminate use of derogatory jokes, comments, or remarks.

            H.    Promote growth, empowerment, involvement, and self-confidence. Enable students to freely a) voice their thoughts, concerns, ideas and opinions                  & b) be themselves (speak their language and share their culture).

• Achievement Gap: Academic performance differences between subgroups (usually as measured by grades, standardized exams, drop out rates, or college completion rates)