|
From the Assistant Principal's Office
“Do the best you can in every task, no matter how unimportant it may seem at the time. No one learns more about a problem than the person at the bottom.”
-Sandra Day O’Connor, first woman appointed to the Supreme Court
If you took a moment to watch the school board meeting this past Wednesday, the first month's discipline data was discussed and compared to that of the two previous years. To summarize those findings, the teachers and administrators have been busy responding to an increase in student behaviors and devising new ways in which to increase focus on academic matters. We have seen and addressed a wider array of behavior and evidence of dysregulation in students this year than in previous years.
But the question is why? Why are more students exhibiting such dysregulation? The Universal Team, which works to define, teach, and consistently model safe, responsible, and respectful behavior to maximize social and academic success, has analyzed the discipline data and discovered that the predominant reasons behind the behavior are primarily due to the need to acquire attention and/or to find an escape from the given task. The school has a number of ways in which we are tackling the issue:
- Increase ways in which students are recognized for doing something positive;
-
Continue the focus on our “Choose Love” character building curriculum;
- Continue the use of restorative practices and use of the Student Support Room;
- Identify students through the Student Support Team in need of an additional level of behavioral support through check-ins, social-skills groups, and self-management;
- Identify students through review of assessment and classroom data who are struggling with academics and provide student-specific learning plans;
- Employ zero tolerance for unkind and unsafe behaviors, while still making space and time to right the wrong.
We need your support. Please consider the following ways in which you can help your child feel valued without having to seek attention through negative behaviors:
- Positive reinforcement: Acknowledge and celebrate small achievements at home. Praise your child for their efforts, whether it's completing homework or showing kindness to a peer.
- Structured Routines: Establish a consistent daily routine. This provides a sense of security and helps students know what to expect, reducing anxiety and the urge to act out. Ensure that adequate sleep and proper nutrition are part of your child’s routines.
- Engaging Activities: Encourage participation in extracurricular activities that align with your child's interests. This can help them channel their energy positively and build self-esteem.
- Monitor Screen Time and Phone Use: Ensure that your child is consuming media and engaging in social media and communication platforms that are appropriate for their developmental level.
- Open Communication: Maintain an open line of communication with your child. Ask about their day, listen to their concerns, and validate their feelings. This can help them feel understood and valued.
- Teach Coping Strategies: Work with your child to develop coping strategies for stress or frustration. Techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or taking breaks can be effective.
- Model Positive Behavior: Demonstrate healthy ways to seek attention and cope with challenges. Your actions can set a powerful example.
- Work with your child’s teacher(s) and administrators: From experience, the last thing any teacher or administrator wants to do is contact home about a misbehavior. And chances are, there have already been many, many redirections, reteachings, and warnings. When we do call, please work with us to find a solution.
As mentioned in a previous Laker article, students are only with us for a fraction of their days and we need everyone’s support to encourage a positive experience that focuses on learning.
~Sarah Gilliam, CAGS
| 
