The Blog

3 Smart Shifts for More Purposeful Peer Dialogue

6 Low-Cost, Low-Stress, Family Events Your Community Will Love

Suspensions are a big problem.This challenging reality underscores why it's crucial for educators and administrators to delve into the complexities of student suspensions and collaborate on effective solutions, especially when the current situation feels overwhelming.

Across the country, schools are making a powerful shift from punitive discipline to restorative practices and the results are transformative. Research shows that schools using restorative approaches see fewer behavioral issues, stronger relationships, and improved school climate. But the true power of this shift lies in what students are learning: how to communicate, resolve conflicts, build empathy, and take ownership of their actions.

The first 30 days of school set the tone for the entire year. While lesson planning and classroom setup are crucial, building strong student relationships might be your most powerful tool for classroom success. Research consistently shows that when students feel connected to their teachers, behavioral issues decrease and engagement soars.

One of the challenges facing educators today is ensuring that all students are active participants in the learning process. We do that through engaging hands-on activities, as well as through thoughtful class discussions. But, what do you do when you call on a student - even one with a hand raised - and you get one of these responses: “I forgot.” “I don’t know.” “Um.” No child learns by opting out! 

Creating effective classroom behavior expectations can feel overwhelming. While most educators understand the importance of solid classroom management, establishing rules that actually work requires a strategic approach. Here are six proven steps to transform your classroom management experience.

Student behavior is one of the most pressing challenges faced by schools and youth-serving organizations today. From preschoolers to high school seniors, behavior concerns can disrupt learning, overwhelm staff, and prevent students from reaching their full potential.