Implementing and Evaluating the Positive School Safety Program (PSSP) for School Climate Staff

• In Event: Growing the Toolbox: Evaluating Varied School Safety Approaches

Abstract

The project investigates the implementation, impact, and sustainability of the Positive School Safety Program (PSSP) for school climate staff (SCS) in Philadelphia schools. SCS oversee students’ unstructured time, often the highest risk times for violence, and need training in actionable skills to reduce violence and enhance school safety. Developed with NIJ funding, PSSP is a manualized, replicable, peer-to-peer coaching intervention that teaches school safety staff, particularly non-instructional staff, to use empirically based, trauma-informed behavior management skills to positively and effectively interact with students to reduce violence and improve school safety. Presenters will discuss program evaluation results based on administrative data, program tracking data, and self-report data, as well as replication and sustainability.

Authors

• Naomi Goldstein, Drexel University

• Nivedita Anjaria, Drexel University

• Ana Cienfuegos, Drexel University

• Emily Perkins, University of Pennsylvania / Drexel University

• Nicholas Hare, Drexel University

• Ann Chandler Tune, Drexel University