Characteristics of a Safe and Responsive Home

Research has affirmed that one of the core characteristics of effective school reform is to create collaborative partnerships between the school and families (Melaville, 1999; Twemlow et.al, 2001, 2002). It is important for parents and educators to send the message to children that home and school are working together to assure a safe and secure environment. In their 1998 report entitled Early Warning, Timely Response: A Guide to Safe Schools, the U.S Department of Education and the Department of Justice outlined the characteristics of a school environment that is safe and responsive to all children, underscoring the need for this collaboration:

Involve families in meaningful ways.
Develop links to the community.
Emphasize positive relationships among students and staff.
Discuss safety issues openly.
Treat students with equal respect.
Create ways for students to share their concerns.
Help children feel safe expressing their feelings.
Have in place a system for referring children who are suspected of being abused or neglected.
Offer extended day programs for children.
Promote good citizenship and character.
Identify problems and assess progress toward solutions.
Support students in making the transition to adult life and the workplace.
Focus on academic achievement

(Dwyer and Osher, 2000)

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