Research Report

Creating Identity-Safe Schools and Classrooms

Two elementary girls reading Spanish-language books in a classroom.
Photo by Allison Shelley for EDUimages
Laura Hernández and Linda Darling-Hammond
August 2022 | Learning Policy Institute
Two elementary girls reading Spanish-language books in a classroom.
Photo by Allison Shelley for EDUimages

This research report from the Learning Policy Institute addresses the ways in which practitioners can build inclusive and affirming school environments with keen attention to identity safety that can support all students in feeling safe, protected, and valued in school environments. A growing body of research points to effective school-based practices and structures that educators can use to foster the identity safety that nurtures student achievement, positive attachments to school, and a genuine sense of belonging and membership for each student.