Respectful Conversations in Schools™ helps students communicate across differences while building civic skills, enhancing learning, and improving classroom culture.
Respectful Conversations in Schools is an evidence-based classroom discussion model that gives students an accessible yet disciplined framework to speak from their own experience, listen carefully to others, and ask questions of genuine interest. The student-led conversations provide an opportunity for discovering commonalities while encouraging reflection on the reasons why others might hold opposing views. Participants deepen their connections with peers and develop a greater sense of empathy and tolerance.
Educators and students who have used Respectful Conversations in Schools have reported:
- Improved communication, active listening, and self-reflection skills
- Deeper engagement with current issues and academic content
- Increased respect for and appreciation of differences
- A more engaged and trusting classroom culture
Respectful Conversations in Schools is available to educators and students in K-12 public, private, and charter schools and integrates best practices, academic standards, and social emotional competencies to give young people the knowledge, skills, and mindset to be successful in college, career, and civic life.
Getting Started
The YMCA Center for Youth Voice offers a highly interactive, three-hour workshop that provides educators with the tools to create an environment in which students can have constructive discussions on important - sometimes even divisive - topics. Student facilitator workshops and ongoing educator coaching are also available. Reach out to YMCA Center for Youth Voice Executive Director, Amy Anderson, at amy.anderson@ymcamn.org 612-330-3045 to request a custom proposal.