Better classroom experiences improve student behavior

Northglenn Middle School Principal Sarah Stone can feel the difference in her school this year. 

“I think the kids are really joyful,” she said. “They want to be here. They’re engaged in the work and want to stay in the classroom.” 

Like all schools across the Five Star District, Northglenn Middle School staff has been implementing the district’s Elevate Academic Roadmap, which focuses on improving students’ achievement and experiences at school. 

According to the data, it’s working. So far this school year, the district has seen a nearly 20 percent decrease in the number of out-of-school suspensions. At Northglenn Middle, the decrease is nearly 30 percent.

“Behavior is often a communication from students about whatever they’re experiencing at school,” Chief Academic Officer Megan Cain said. “It’s our responsibility to figure out what they are communicating with us and how we can help them succeed.”

There isn’t a single solution for improving student behavior and experiences at school. Instead, schools are focusing on improving in multiple areas: A new and engaging middle school English Language Arts curriculum that sets high expectations and challenges students; moving away from consequences like cleaning during lunch detention and instead engaging students on the behavior they were struggling with, and listening to what students say and helping them feel an increased sense of belonging at school.

This can also include exploring other disciplinary options before resorting to out-of-school suspensions, Stone said. For example, students caught vaping take virtual classes on the dangers of tobacco and nicotine. They make sure students understand the consequences for different behaviors and even do accountability check-ins with students who have struggled. 

“There’s no getting away from accountability,” she said. “That creates an environment where students can thrive.”