The Case for Civility: How Respect Transforms Schools

How do you create a school culture where students thrive, teachers stay, and respect runs deep? In this episode of American Classroom, hosts Jared Taylor and Lindsey Crosland welcome back Kim Ellsworth, Director of Education for Heritage Academy, to explore the transformative power of civility in schools. Drawing on her experience founding two campuses, Kim shares real-world strategies for establishing a calm, respectful learning environment—and why culture must come before test scores.

From building virtuous cycles through discipline and language, to navigating the challenges of social media and student behavior, this conversation offers practical insights for educators, administrators, and parents alike. Learn how electives, staff modeling, and consistent standards shape not only campuses, but communities—and why the small things, like “please” and “thank you,” are the big things.

If you care about the future of education, this episode is a masterclass in the power of culture done right.