George Lucas Educational Foundation

How to Set the Stage for Challenging Classroom Discussions

Creating a safer space for students to engage with controversial topics starts with shared norms like “assume best intentions” and “show respect and courage.”

August 5, 2020

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Schools That Work

The Springfield Renaissance School

Public, Urban
Grades 6-12
Springfield, MA

Colorful banners hanging from the ceilings at Springfield Renaissance School call out seven character traits—friendship, perseverance, responsibility, respect, self-discipline, cultural sensitivity, and courage—that students and staff pledge to adhere to. These “community commitments” provide the foundation for the 6–12 school’s culture and climate, which emphasizes building strong relationships so that students and faculty are supported emotionally and academically. Throughout the school, it’s rare to see teachers lecturing in front of classrooms. Instead, they encourage students to take the lead in their learning with self-directed research or cross-curricular projects, known as expeditions. Though more than half of the diverse study body is economically disadvantaged, the Expeditionary Learning school has proved that setting high expectations and providing social and emotional supports can help any student to excel.

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  • Communication Skills
  • Social & Emotional Learning (SEL)

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