According to the California
Department of Education, there has been a significant decline in suspensions of
students at Rancho Minerva Middle School approximately 78.5% from 2013 to 2014. What has caused the drastic decline in
suspensions? As the previous blog discussed
a significant aspect has been building positive relationships with our
students. Rather than approaching discipline from a punitive model, we have
begun positive behavior programs at Rancho Minerva Middle. Teachers, the counselor, and administration
participated in a two-day workshop that focused on increasing positive behaviors
on campus. One system we have in place is our Rancho Rewards Program. When students demonstrate positive behaviors,
(i.e., helping others in class, picking up trash, or following directions)
teachers, administrators, and support staff gives the student a Rancho Reward
card. Students turn in their Rancho
Rewards cards in the main office. Every
Friday, we draw names for Rancho Rewards.
The weekly winners can opt for various prizes such as front of the lunch
line tickets, free snack from our student store, or an opportunity to spend
their lunch in our game room, (where students can play on any of the game
consoles such as the Wii, Play Station, and Xbox). A team of teachers, counselors, and
administrators visit the weekly winners in class and recognize the students in
front of their classmates. The program is a true success. Students who are
selected reflect pride and increase confidence.
Some tips
you could use may include the 4:1 ratio. For every negative comment made, four
positive comments are given in return. It
can be something as simple as: “Great job today in class, Good job in
participating in class.” Small yet
powerful comments can truly make a powerful difference.
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