Calm in the Classroom: Effective De-Escalation Techniques for Supporting Students

This workshop provides educators with research-based strategies to understand and manage student behavior escalation in K–12 classrooms. Participants explore the causes and triggers of student conflict, learn preventative measures to minimize behavioral issues, and practice practical de-escalation techniques to support students in crisis. The session also emphasizes the importance of emotional resilience for educators, offering tools for reflection and recovery after challenging encounters. Grounded in research based de-escalation models, the training equips staff with actionable steps to create calmer, more supportive learning environments.

• Escalating student behaviors in the classroom
  
  
• Power struggles and ineffective adult responses during conflict
  
  
• Lack of proactive and preventative behavior management strategies
  

1. Understanding Escalation Cycles: Participants will gain insight into behavioral escalation patterns, including common triggers and warning signs, and learn to recognize student behaviors at each stage—from agitation to peak crisis.
   
   
2. Preventative and De-escalation Strategies: Educators will learn proactive classroom management practices, relationship-building techniques, and specific verbal and non-verbal de-escalation responses to reduce the intensity and duration of student outbursts.
   
   
3. Emotional Resilience and Recovery: Attendees will develop personal strategies for maintaining composure during crisis moments, reflect on post-crisis debriefing methods, and learn how to rebuild therapeutic rapport with students while taking care of their own emotional well-being.