CVPSD Delivers De-escalation Training for Educators at Hartford’s American Institute Adult Education School
- william demuth
- May 23
- 3 min read
Updated: May 26
Educators at Hartford, Connecticut’s American Institute adult education school recently completed a specialized de-escalation training program provided by the Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense (CVPSD), a nonprofit leader in violence prevention and self-defense education.
Empowering Educators with Practical De-escalation Skills
The CVPSD training was designed to give educators practical tools for managing disruptive or challenging behaviors in the classroom. The curriculum emphasized proactive strategies to prevent escalation and foster a safe, positive learning environment. Key components included:
Verbal De-escalation: Educators learned to recognize early warning signs of agitation and practiced communication techniques such as active listening, empathy, and calm, assertive dialogue. Through scenario-based exercises, participants developed skills to defuse tense situations before they escalate.
Deterrence Strategies: The training covered methods for creating an environment that discourages disruptive behavior. This included setting clear expectations, using positive reinforcement, and establishing a classroom presence that promotes respect and cooperation.
Disengagement Techniques: Educators were taught safe and effective ways to disengage from confrontational situations. These techniques focused on maintaining personal safety while minimizing disruption, allowing staff to remove themselves or redirect attention in a non-confrontational manner.
Meeting the Needs of Adult Education Environments
Adult education settings often present unique behavioral challenges, making de-escalation and deterrence skills essential for educators. CVPSD’s program is tailored to the realities of adult classrooms, empowering staff to respond confidently and compassionately to difficult situations while maintaining a supportive atmosphere for all learners.
Positive Impact and Educator Feedback
Participants in the training reported increased confidence in handling disruptive behaviors and a greater sense of preparedness for crisis situations. The hands-on, practical approach was praised for its relevance and immediate applicability in the classroom.
"Great Presentation. Organized and thorough."
“This training has been helpful to assist me in keeping myself and staff safe. It is also important that it has given me the tools to create a more safe environment.”
"Great lecture! Materials were very helpful for our educators and general life situations"
"This was a very useful presentation which can easily used in the classroom. I defiantly learned some new ways to resolve issues not only in the classroom but outside."
"Having security preparedness for our staff faculty is so appreciated."
— Training participants
A Model for Educational Safety
CVPSD’s de-escalation training is increasingly recognized as a best practice for educational institutions seeking to enhance safety and promote positive interactions. By focusing on deterrence, disengagement, and proactive communication, the program equips educators to manage challenges effectively and support a productive learning environment.
For more information about CVPSD’s violence prevention and de-escalation programs, visit their website or contact them for tailored training solutions.
Violence Prevention and Self Defense Resources
The goal of the Center for Violence Prevention and Self Defense is to stop violence by educating at-risk people and empower them with the skills needed to protect themselves both online and live training. CVPSD's live training is available to people of all ages.
Through workshops and seminars we educate participants about violence prevention and guide them on assessing risk factors while establishing boundaries in relationships. Additionally practical self defense classes equip people with hands on skills and effective strategies to prevent and intervene in cases of assault.