Many schools, colleges, and universities across the country face challenges in creating safe and supportive learning environments. Positive school climate and conditions for learning contribute to improved test scores, attendance, grade promotion, and graduation rates. Efforts to improve school climate and safety can help reduce violent behavior.

The National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments (NCSSLE) is improving conditions for learning in schools (K-16) so that all students have the opportunity to realize academic success. NCSSLE provides training and technical assistance on issues such as bullying, violence prevention, mental health, substance abuse, discipline, and safety.

NCSSLE has supported improvements in school climate in 11 states, over 200 school districts, and more than 700 schools. AIR experts have developed a benchmark tool for a positive school climate initiative, assisted districts with school climate surveys, implemented targeted programmatic interventions, conducted training to address risk factors, and provided resources such as bullying training modules for classroom teachers, support staff, and school bus drivers. AIR experts also played a key role in the development and dissemination of the Federal Guidance Package on School Discipline released by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice.

NCSSLE is funded from 2012-2016 by the Office of Safe and Healthy Students at the U.S. Department of Education. Partners include Child Trends; Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning; Evaluation Management Training Associates; Silver Gate Group; and Vision Training Associates.