By: Rich Smith
Behavioral Health Coordinator
Over the past year, we have seen meaningful progress across our district through the implementation of our Behavior Solutions Framework. This work has reinforced a simple but powerful belief: when we are intentional, consistent, and proactive, student behavior improves, and learning environments become safer and more supportive for everyone.
In three of our schools, we have seen a noticeable reduction in physical aggression on the playground. This improvement did not happen by chance. Staff focused on preventative strategies—clear expectations, active supervision, and explicit teaching of replacement behaviors—while also responding quickly and thoughtfully when intervention was needed. As a result, students are better equipped to manage conflict, and adults are more confident in addressing concerns before they escalate.
Across many of our buildings, discipline office referrals have decreased this school year. Fewer students are being removed from instructional time, and more challenges are being addressed within classrooms and common spaces. In two additional buildings, we have seen a clear reduction in disrespectful and defiant behaviors, reflecting stronger relationships, clearer routines, and consistent responses aligned with our framework.
A key driver of this success has been our district-wide commitment to alignment.
Through behavior academies, we are building shared understanding and skills among staff, ensuring that expectations and practices are consistent from building to building. District coordination of behavior criteria within our model has reduced confusion and increased fidelity, allowing teams to respond to behavior with clarity and purpose.
Our school mental health providers have been central to this work. They bring expertise, leadership, and a willingness to engage in the difficult, often complex work of systems-level improvement. By supporting staff, analyzing data, and guiding intervention planning, they help ensure that behavior is addressed as a skill to be taught—not just a problem to be managed.
We are not finished, but we are getting better. The progress we see is evidence that a systemic, preventative approach works. By continuing to invest in coordination, professional learning, and mental health expertise, we are strengthening expected behaviors and creating learning environments where students and staff can succeed together.
2025-2026 School SMARTS Goals To Date:
