Term

2013

Capstone

Restricted Access Thesis

Degree Name

MAESL

Abstract

A safe learning environment is an essential component of schools that nurture the academic achievement of their students. In a first-ring suburban secondary setting, a proactive solution to the conflict that arose between Karen and African American male students was necessary to maintain peace and improve interethnic relations between the two groups. This study evaluated the African American Karen Alliance (AAKA), a program developed to address the conflict. A questionnaire was administered to the groups' members and four interviews were completed to determine how effective the program was at creating feelings of safety for students in school and changing their perceptions of other cultural groups in the building. After detailed analysis, it was concluded that the leadership of those involved and the relationships built among the AAKA members positively impacted students' feelings of safety and perceptions of other cultural groups.

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