Research Shows SAVE Chapters Improve School Environments

Thanks to funding from Chevrolet, as part of their Chevy R.O.C.K. (Reaching Out to Communities and Kids) program, the National Association of Students Against Violence Everywhere (SAVE) contracted with the Evaluation and Training Institute in Los Angeles, CA to conduct an evaluation of the implementation process of new chapters of SAVE by analyzing data from the first year of implementation at 25 new sites. Quantitative data were collected through written surveys of advisors and students, while qualitative data were gathered through site visits to school sites and interviews with advisors and principals. The following points briefly summarize the key findings:

• As reported by students and advisors, SAVE improves school environments by teaching students how to manage and resolve conflict, reducing violence, and helping more students get involved.
• The majority of students report that they joined SAVE to improve the school environment by making the school a safer place.
• Students who participate in SAVE demonstrate increased self-esteem and confidence, conflict resolution, presentation/public speaking, and knowledge about different violence prevention strategies.
• Advisors reported that they had accomplished getting students involved, organizing and implementing community activities, meeting weekly as a club, and making people aware of the program.
• Principals believe that students who participate in the SAVE program will play an important role in creating a safe campus and community by practicing nonviolence, possessing positive attitudes, and being good role-models.
• The SAVE chapters surveyed and interviewed have been very active, conducting a wide variety of activities to promote nonviolence. Each site is unique and has implemented the program in a different way. Overall, sites have been highly effective in improving awareness and offering alternatives to violence for students who are involved.

National Association of Students Against Violence Everywhere SAVE: Youth Voices... Grown-Up Choices! Toll Free 866-343-SAVE For more information contact cwray@nationalsave.org   /   Copyright 2007