In the past, school-wide zero-tolerance policies
have focused mainly on reacting to specific
student misbehavior by implementing
punishment-based strategies. Research during the
past 20 years has shown that school-wide behavior
systems that are positively focused on desired
behaviors can result in a substantive lifestyle
impact for all members of a school community.
Additionally, these school wide initiatives must
be supported by district-wide systems of
multi-tiered interventions and equitable policies
that focus on reducing exclusionary discipline,
increasing attendance, and sustaining positive,
inclusive, and hate-free school and district
cultures. This course will examine the
systems-based approach for implementing culturally
proficient, multi-tiered, school-wide behavior
supports, and the critical role that school
leaders have in building positive learning
environments for each student.