By Veronica Gerald, Founder & CEO, Education Leadership Services, LLC
As we enter the season of Thanksgiving, a time of reflection and gratitude, it's a perfect moment to recognize the hard work and dedication that goes into creating a thriving school culture. This November, we’re offering next-level strategies to support your behavior management efforts, building on the foundations your teams have already established.
- Personalized Emotional Regulation Areas Move beyond standard “calm corners” by tailoring spaces for specific student needs. For younger students, include sensory tools like textured mats or calming visuals. For older students, add reflective journals or breathing exercises. Collaborate with teachers to periodically reassess and adapt these spaces based on individual progress and feedback.
- Data-Driven Behavioral Check-Ins Establish weekly “Behavior Health Checks” using simple observation notes or checklists to track individual behavior patterns. Share monthly summaries with your leadership team to identify trends and tailor supports, making it easier to respond proactively rather than reactively.
- School-Wide Gratitude Initiatives Create a “Thankfulness Circle” activity for weekly staff meetings and student advisory periods throughout November. These gratitude exercises, like sharing one “Thankful Thought” per week, can nurture empathy and respect school-wide, deepening your culture of positive reinforcement.
- Structured Peer Mentorship Programs Implement a weekly peer mentorship program where older students support younger ones, focusing on social skills and academic habits. Weekly check-ins help build confidence and create role models for responsible behavior. It’s a leadership-building experience that enhances accountability and school connectedness.
- Weekly Classroom Restorative CirclesHold brief restorative circles each week, focused on themes like empathy, resilience, or teamwork. This practice reinforces classroom trust and encourages students to voice challenges constructively, fostering accountability and respect among peers.
Our team at Education Leadership Services is here to provide further tailored support as your school refines these initiatives. As we deepen these practices, let’s celebrate the commitment of every educator in shaping environments where students and staff thrive.
