Training

Conflict between students and school staff is not new. Confrontations, or power struggles, often start small between an adult and a student who simultaneously feel a need to assert control. These negative interactions quickly disrupt learning for everyone present and strain the relationships of the involved parties, leaving both the staff member and the student feeling misunderstood and frustrated (Evertson & Weinstein, 2006).

Though conflict cannot be eliminated entirely, educators who understand the emotional dynamics of the situation can use approaches that transform tense interactions into opportunities for connection and growth. Adults who calmly respond with intention rather than an urgency to assert control over students model that mistakes do not threaten their sense of belonging and that conflict can be resolved without anger or control. This intentional shift helps create classrooms and environments where everyone feels respected, and students are ready to learn.

By the end of this module, participants will be able to:

•  Identify signs of escalation.

•  Use de-escalation strategies.

•  Maintain calm, regulated responses.

•  Recognize how bias shapes perception.

• Apply supportive approaches that prevent power struggles.

This course will take approximately 30 minutes to complete.