Creating emotionally safe, respectful, and inclusive learning environments is one of the most important responsibilities educators have. The New York State Dignity for All Students Act (DASA) establishes expectations for preventing bullying, harassment, discrimination, and intimidation while promoting dignity, equity, and respect for every student. Educators play a critical role in recognizing harmful behaviors, responding appropriately, fostering inclusive classrooms, and creating school communities where all students feel valued and supported.

This 10-hour CTLE course provides educators with practical, research-informed strategies to understand and implement the principles of DASA in everyday classroom practice. Participants will explore educator responsibilities, bullying prevention, student belonging, implicit bias, culturally responsive teaching, restorative practices, reporting procedures, and proactive strategies that strengthen positive school climate and improve student outcomes.

Throughout the course, participants will examine:

• The purpose and requirements of the New York State Dignity for All Students Act (DASA)

• Educator responsibilities for preventing bullying, harassment, and discrimination

• The impact of bullying, exclusion, and school climate on student learning

• Recognizing implicit bias and creating inclusive classroom environments

• Culturally responsive teaching practices that promote belonging

• Responding appropriately to incidents involving bullying, harassment, and discrimination

• Documentation and reporting responsibilities under DASA

• Restorative approaches that support student relationships and accountability

• Classroom strategies that promote dignity, respect, and emotional safety

• Developing a classroom action plan that supports inclusive learning environments

Participants will reflect on their own classroom practices while developing practical resources, intervention strategies, and classroom supports that can be immediately implemented within their schools. Assignments are designed to be manageable, classroom-focused, and directly connected to real-world educational practice. Special attention is given to helping educators create learning environments where every student feels safe, respected, included, and empowered to succeed.