District reports rise in student behavior incidents, principals working on positive reinforcement and supports

School administrators updated the board on student behavior and attendance trends, reporting increases in several categories and describing steps schools are taking to respond.

The presentation stated the district has seen a year‑over‑year rise in disciplinary incidents (the presenter cited a 63% increase compared with last year) and noted increases in several categories across schools. At the high school the largest single category was refusal to comply with staff requests; at the elementary level staff called out reckless behavior with risk of injury, throwing objects with potential for harm, and minor physical altercations without injury. Tobacco possession/use incidents also appeared among recorded categories.

Administrators described several mitigation strategies already in place or expanding: targeted positive behavior interventions and incentives, morning tutoring and after‑school supports, night school offerings (4 nights per week) that include academic remediation and credit recovery, and disciplinary measures tied to attendance and conduct expectations for special events (for example, homecoming). The superintendent and staff emphasized that attendance remains strong even while disciplinary referrals have risen.

Board members asked for further detail on the categories used, whether consequences are consistently applied, and what supports are being provided to teachers and bus drivers; administrators said they are working with principals on consistent data reporting, are using positive behavior interventions and are evaluating where additional staffing or supports (including possible second staff on buses) may reduce incidents. No specific policy changes were approved at the meeting; staff said they will continue data monitoring and report back with targeted interventions.