Schools

Space for students to build their social and emotional skills through conversations

Candidly Speaking has partnered with teachers and administrators to develop a program built specifically for students. Our school program equips young people with the communication skills, empathy, and listening practices they need to build a stronger sense of belonging and show up fully in every room they walk into.

What we do

Facilitated conversations built for students

We bring facilitated conversations into classrooms, creating structured spaces where students can speak openly, listen actively, and learn from each other's experiences. Our facilitators guide groups through activities designed to build empathy, resolve conflict constructively, and foster connection within their school communities.

Our program helps educators address one of the most challenging standards to teach and assess: structured speaking and listening. When students feel heard and valued, belonging and engagement follow.

This program is right for your school if...

You want to meet Common Core speaking and listening standards in a meaningful way

Students are struggling with conflict resolution and communication

You want to build a stronger culture of belonging

Your staff is looking for tools to address division or disconnection

What students walk away with

Communication and active listening

Skills they carry into every classroom, workplace, and relationship.

Tools for navigating conflict

Constructive approaches to disagreement and difference that actually work.

A stronger sense of belonging

Connection and empathy that strengthens the whole school community.

Confidence sharing perspectives

The confidence to share their perspective in any room, in school and beyond.

We meet you where you are

In-person sessions

Virtual sessions

Multi-session programs

Every school program is designed around your students and your goals. If you are ready to explore what this could look like for your school, tell us about your school on our partner page and we will take it from there.

"This event did a great job of creating a space that ensured I was comfortable sharing my situation and thoughts."

Student participant

"This was really great. I hope more of my classes and workplaces are able to do this."

Student participant

Youth in Dialogue

Youth in Dialogue is a Candidly Speaking program that trains students ages 14 to 25 in facilitation, trauma-informed communication, and social-emotional learning. Participants complete a 4-week curriculum (20 hours total) and receive a Candidly Speaking Trained Facilitator designation upon completion.

Graduates are placed as paid facilitators at Candidly Speaking events and have the opportunity to bring structured dialogue programs to their own schools. The program serves as a first step into nonclinical mental health work, giving young people real credentials, real experience, and a path forward.

For students

Are you a young person ages 14 to 25 interested in facilitation, mental health, or community work? Get notified when applications open.

For schools

Want to offer Youth in Dialogue at your school? We are currently building partnerships with schools who want to train students as facilitators.

Express interest or partnership inquiry