Research Highlight - Building Safer Schools: Higher Ground's Impact on Reducing School Violence
Sadly, school violence remains a persistent and pressing issue in our nation. Recent research from RAND, shared by the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL), Strengthening School Violence Prevention, underscores the urgent need for effective prevention strategies. At Higher Ground, we believe that our work directly contributes to creating safer school environments.
We're proud to share the tangible results of our efforts - decreases in discipline incidents and improvements in behavior over several years. Among the students we worked with directly, comparing the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years, we saw:
56% decrease in discipline incidents, demonstrating a significant reduction in disruptive and potentially violent behaviors.
36% improvement in self-control, equipping students with the tools to manage their emotions and make positive choices.
55% improvement in grit/resilience, fostering the ability to overcome challenges and build stronger character.
How do we achieve these impactful results? Our Restart SMART strategy is built on a foundation of data-driven, educational research assessments. We work in close partnership with school administrators, identifying and supporting students in need and providing crucial support to their families. Together, we build strong, supportive school communities.
Our Restart SMART Site Directors are on the ground in Tucson and Chandler schools, serving populations facing high poverty rates and opportunity gaps. They utilize a personalized approach, developing a deep understanding of each individual's unique needs and assets to support locally-led goals.
Using our Data-Powered Strategic Coaching Technology, Site Directors focus on student, family, and community well-being, tailoring their support to each person's specific history. Recognizing that each individual is the expert in their own life, this strategy empowers students, families, schools, and communities to achieve sustainable change.
Donors’ generosity is the driving force behind our work. With donor support, we are making a real difference in breaking the cycle of school violence and building stronger, safer school communities.
We invite you to learn more about our transformative work at higherground.me. Please consider making a gift to support our efforts at higherground.me/donate.
Higher Ground Heros are monthly recurring donors! Please consider becoming a “Hero” and sign-up to donate monthly Heroes Link Your contribution will directly empower students and create safer learning environments.
Thank you for being a vital partner in creating a brighter future for our children!