The Society is involved in ongoing evaluation of its resources and programs through: anonymous surveys, questionnaires, focus groups and action research.

Qualitative Research Data
Collected Using Focus Group Methodology

SACSC Programs Improve Student Achievement and Motivation in School.

“The SACSC lessons are building self-esteem and making students more self-assured. The SACSC activities have generated excitement in the students that we don’t often see.” (Teacher)

“We are seeing a real willingness in the kids to be involved and express themselves to their peers that we never saw before, especially in kids that were reserved and quiet.” (Teacher)

“We have high school students that used to test at elementary levels that are now testing at a grade 12 level. They have turned their whole lives around. They are speaking in mature ways about mature subjects, because we have been incorporating SACSC topics in all the classes.” (Teacher)

“The ‘Expecting Respect’ student group has grown by leaps and bounds. They are meeting twice a week on their own time and have really improved their leadership skills.” (Teacher)

“Our Kindergarten class is just flying this year and I think it definitely has to do with SACSC. We’ve become aware of the idea of safe and caring, so now it is always there, in everything we are doing. (Administrator)

SACSC programs improve student attendance by creating a safe, caring and comfortable atmosphere for students and staff

“We have 17 out of 20 students that were labelled non-attenders and reluctant learners now regularly attending class. These are students that, four years ago, never attended school. I believe it’s because I now incorporate the safe and caring values and lessons into every moment of every class, everyday. They come now because it’s become safer.” (Teacher)

“A lot of the at-risk students are coming to class and participating more because they enjoy the interactive work and hands-on activities that SACSC lessons use.” (Teacher)

“Attendance has gone up in every class (since SACSC).” (Administrator)

“It’s easier to learn when you want to come to school. ”(High school Student)

“People like to come to school (now) because they know it is safe.” (Elementary Student)

SACSC programs reduce bullying and violence in schools and communities.

“There is not as much violence this year, and there is less fighting everywhere. Students are feeling safer because they are no longer afraid of getting beat up.” (Junior High Student)

“In grade one and two I got called mean things and I also got hit… now I can tell a teacher to stop the bullies. “(Elementary Student)

“I have gotten nicer…I used to push people off snow banks, but when (SACSC) started, I learned not to do that and I haven’t done it ever since .”(Elementary Student)

“We have students that are emotionally, physically and psychologically endangered. SACSC is absolutely working for them. They haven’t blown up since we started the lessons (about anger management).” (Teacher)

“There is a change in the playground, now people say stop when others are hurting or bothering them and the students do stop, they listen . “(Elementary Student)

“Last year I didn’t help people when they’d get hurt and this year I’m helping them.” (Elementary Student)

“Physical violence has gone way down (since SACSC). “ (Administrator)

SACSC programs improve the learning environment for students and staff.

“I have noticed a difference in myself and in the other staff since SACSC started. We make a point to reach out to others now. We have all become kinder. We are reaching out to the parents more. Its not hard work and the rewards are great”. (Teacher)

“It’s nice to see that adults care about the students. Teachers that are open, listen and care make a big difference .” (High School Student)

“Now I’m listening more and addressing issues immediately . “(Teacher)

“I like Safe and Caring Schools because there are no bullies around.” (Elementary Student)

“It’s really taken an effect on the kids… I can see it in the school and I can see it on the bus… (the students) talk about the goose… they talk about how they’re supposed to behave and how to respect one another. It’s a really big improvement. “(Support Staff,)

“I have students from grade 12 coming into my class at lunch because it’s become a safe room. They come to hang out with the younger students and work on projects, even on their own time.” (Teacher)

“Now teachers talk to students about problems instead of sending them to the office . “(High School Student)

“There is a friendlier feeling in the staff room, and generally among staff members. ” (Teacher)

“The lower elementary has really come together—the children have really responded and are more caring toward one another.” (Administrator)

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