Educators and administrators sometimes have to come together to discuss sensitive topics such as discipline, budget cuts, changes in staffing, and, unfortunately too often, racist incidents, bullying, or violence which disrupt the organization and the community. These are topics which affect everyone, even if one person’s department or team is not directly affected.

CL techniques such as Everyone Can Explain, Friendly Visitor, or Write-Pair-Switch can be effective ways to receive, process, share, and reflect on the best way forward. Processing sensitive information, while of course respecting confidentiality, can make everyone feel safer and supported. The group then can move forward with proactive solutions, and avoid negative and unconstructive reactivity.