Page 51 - EdViewptsSpring2017

and conversation with the child was tember 2016, we initiated the Consta- class accounts. The students and par-
key, as we shared how the student ble CARES Cubs program. Staff mem- ents love seeing these images, building
was progressing. We asked how the bers can recognize students who have a stronger relationship between home
transition has been for their child and done something nice for someone, and school.
fielded any questions. This same pro- also known as a random act of kind- The curriculum is challenging enough
cedure is now in place as a standard ness. The staff member fills out a form for our students, but it can also be
operating procedure for students who and a letter is sent home congratulat- difficult for parents. As part of our Title I
transfer in during the school year. ing/thanking the child, with the details program, we have a lead teacher
When students work hard in class, that of the recognition. This program has who proactively involves families in
tends to be expected. It’s the behavior- helped strengthen the connection our targeted events including STEAM
al issues that raise a red flag and then paraprofessionals have with students, Day, Family Fun Nights, and Parent
parent outreach often occurs. As a especially at lunch and recess when Academies. Letters and phone calls
grassroots initiative, we began calling we experience the most behavioral directly to those families strengthen
parents and sending positive letters infractions. The paraprofessionals are the home-school partnership and
home regarding students we saw positively recognizing students who increase participation. Food helps too!
working hard, being kind, and helping Selected students participate in a
others. When parents received the As a grassroots initiative, program where they are given a
call or letter, they shared their gratitude we began calling parents Chromebook with 4G internet access
with us. This often resulted in continued and sending positive to use at home for the year. The
positive feedback, especially impacting students have access to Google
students with chronic behavioral and letters home regarding Classroom, where selected websites
academic concerns. As students are students we saw working to strengthen reading, writing, and
rewarded for their positive actions, math are available. There is also a
the pride builds into sustained effort. hard, being kind, and “weebly” with grade level tabs that
Students who received letters or phone helping others. lead families to videos and how-to
calls home for such positive reasons guides to assist with the accurate
displayed more of the positive actions completion of homework. Prior to
as they were recognized. While some typically exhibit “red-flag” behaviors. receiving the device, families meet
students did respond positively to the Infractions have decreased during one-on-one with the teacher to
negatives being pointed out, the stu- lunch and recess. Furthermore, these explore the resources, ask questions,
dents who were struggling academically students return to class for afternoon and learn how they can use it as
and socially benefitted more from instruction with much better focus and an additional resource to reach the
recognition of their positive actions. In initiative. We have teamed with our teacher, post questions, and seek
one instance, I walked by a classroom local police department, so that each help when needed.
and noticed a student who struggled month, students are acknowledged
in the past with inattentiveness and with a certificate and “swearing in” cer- Addressing student concerns is part
inappropriate behaviors. He was read- emony by a police officer. The forms of the day. However, it has become
ing. Quietly. Independently. While the are posted on a bulletin board, as well less a part of my day as a result of
teacher may have wished he sustained as the monthly group photo — which positive and proactive communication.
that independent reading for the full 15 is also posted on the school Facebook Identifying and recognizing positive
minutes, seven minutes was excellent page (fb.com/sbsdco). behaviors of students who were
for this student. The letter home had Along with the group photo, other posts consistently on the infraction log has
the child very proud of himself, and on Facebook allow for students and improved their behavior and academic
upon subsequent visits and notes from parents to be proud. Photos and com- progress. It has made my job much
the teacher, he had soon been able to ments of students working well adorn more enjoyable as I keep a running
read for the full 15 minutes. the social media platform. Teachers tally of the discipline and positive
Staff members now began recom- have also become avid users of social related phone calls I make. When the
numbers are too close, I run out of
mending students who deserved a media, and many post pictures of their my office and find a positive reason to
positive letter or phone call. In Sep- students during proud moments on
their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram connect with a student and family.

About the Author

Peter Rattien is principal at Constable Elementary School in South Brunswick, NJ. Additionally, he has
served in the district as assistant principal and leader of the district Chromebook integration. Peter
taught in South Brunswick, and prior to doing so, began his teaching career at PS 56 in the Bronx, NY.
He earned his undergraduate degree from Ithaca College, graduate degree from Hunter College, and
administrative certification through the NJExcel program. Follow him on Twitter @prattien.

Educational Viewpoints -49- Spring 2017