So, how is MUSD getting to the root of the problems?
Predicting behavioral problems daily is nearly impossible. MUSD board members and administrators continue reviewing policies monthly to sharpen focus and clarity.
“We’ve committed to regular board-meeting updates regarding information, training, policy analysis and so forth,” Lopeman said.
Board member Torri Anderson appreciates the initiative but is concerned about the pace as well as uneven enforcement of policies.
“If a policy is broken, a policy is broken, period,” Anderson said.
She adds some policies are archaic.
Anderson suggested discussing one discipline policy each month and homing in on definitions to ensure there is no misinterpretation.
During two board meetings, Pastor analyzed definitions of infractions, code of conduct and range of consequences for infractions.
Pastor met with principals district-wide to review a sampling of discipline referrals. Daily, Pastor receives every referral that results in a suspension and reviews them with the corresponding principal.
MUSD schools use Synergy, a student information system, to document referrals.
Pastor updated the data that must be included — such as time, location and perceived motivation — to improve continuity.
She has also begun discussing systems for students with multiple discipline incidents. Administrators will consider the number of days of suspension, if the child’s family has acknowledged the student handbook, type of infraction, if the student is receiving counseling and other factors.
“We want to prepare for every scenario,” Pastor said.
Anderson said it requires continuing vigilance.
“You’ve got to constantly reteach,” she said. “So, I think it’s a great discussion moving forward because it will be to the benefit of our community and the success of our students.”
Related stories:
- Bringing kindness back to the classroom – InMaricopa
- School Safety: What about problems outside of school? – InMaricopa
- School Safety: How is MUSD prioritizing mental health and behavioral development? – InMaricopa
- School Safety: How much has COVID-19 impacted students’ mental health, behavior? – InMaricopa
- School Safety: Can academic intervention improve behavior? – InMaricopa
- School Safety: How is MUSD emphasizing campus safety?
- School Safety: As a parent or teacher, how can you help? – InMaricopa
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