EdCast How Caring Is Your School? Senior Lecturer Rick Weissbourd, co-director of the Making Caring Common Project, outlines a new way for schools to examine their culture and environment through the power of big data. Posted October 8, 2014 By Matt Weber Additional information: 1) Beginning in fall 2014, middle and high schools across the country are invited to join the Caring Schools Initiative (CSI). Schools in the CSI use survey data and research-based strategies to promote safety, caring, and respect, and to develop responses to reduce bullying and students’ behavior-related troubles. This initiative is built on our successful pilot program last year with 35 schools and more than 10,000 students. Participating schools will engage in a simple, low-burden data cycle that will allow them to: Assess how their students and staff perceive their school environment using MCC survey tools Identify school strength and challenge areas Develop responsive action plans Implement strategic interventions Schools will also have access to resources and strategies developed by MCC. For a limited time, joining the CSI is free to schools and districts serving students in grades 6-12. 2) This spring, the Harvard Graduate School of Education will be offering a professional development institute entitled, "Making Caring Common: Promoting Caring and Respect in Students, and Preventing Bullying and Behavior Problems." ABOUT THE HARVARD EDCAST The Harvard EdCast is a weekly series of podcasts, available on the Harvard University iTunes U page, that features a 15-20 minute conversation with thought leaders in the field of education from across the country and around the world. Hosted by Matt Weber, the Harvard EdCast is a space for educational discourse and openness, focusing on the myriad issues and current events related to the field. EdCast An education podcast that keeps the focus simple: what makes a difference for learners, educators, parents, and communities Explore All Articles Related Articles EdCast Healthy Identity Development Psychologist and author Jennifer Bryan talks to Senior Lecturer Richard Weissbourd about issues of gender and heteronormativity in schools. EdCast The Talk Suggestions on how young people can deal with sex and relationships, as well as widespread misogyny and harassment EdCast Committing to the Common Good Rick Weissbourd, faculty director of Making Caring Common, discusses the launch of the Caring Schools #CommonGood campaign.