Teacher Victimization: Implementation of a Statewide Training Program

The Texas School Safety Center (TxSSC), with support from leading experts in the field, proposes to use evidence-based strategies to create and deliver a statewide training to address teacher victimization. This training will be open to all district and campus administrators in Texas K-12 public and charter schools, prioritizing districts serving larger numbers of students from low socioeconomic backgrounds. The virtual training will equip participants with strategies to address teacher victimization using a systemic, multi-faceted approach. Facilitators with relevant content expertise will guide participants to identify practical solutions to address teacher victimization in their districts. The training will emphasize strategies grounded in behavioral supports, distributive and procedural justice, and restorative practices. Additionally, the TxSSC will provide templates for creating effective policies and procedures; customizable materials for communicating with stakeholders; classroom management resources; lists of suggested trainings and mental health resources; and a framework to guide districts in collecting data, setting goals, creating actionable plans, and evaluating progress in their ongoing efforts to address teacher victimization. The TxSSC will provide ongoing support and services as needed, including the administration of surveys aimed at measuring teacher perceptions of safety and effectiveness of administrator response to teacher victimization incidents. As a result of this training, it is expected that school administrators will understand the impact of teacher victimization; be equipped to assess their district in terms of current policies and campus climates; feel more confident to amend and/or create better policies and procedures; and be prepared to support awareness campaigns and professional development activities for stakeholders. In the long-term, this training program is expected to reduce teacher victimization incidents, improve response measures, increase teacher satisfaction and retention, and improve school climates.