Learning Center reports improved student climate; student credits program for turnaround

Mr. Holmes, director of the Learning Center, told the MS 86 Board of Directors that a climate-and-culture effort begun after 2020 produced measurable gains in student responses to a climate survey.

Holmes said the Learning Center compared a survey from February 2023 with one given three to four months earlier this year and found “a real shift” on several questions measuring respect, belonging and teasing. He said one item showed about a 23.67 percentage-point positive shift and another rose from roughly 32% positive responses to nearly 60% positive responses.

Why it matters: Board members said the results matter because a safer, smaller-school environment can make learning possible for students who struggled in larger settings. The Learning Center presentation combined summary data, staff practices such as weekly town-hall meetings and a student testimonial to illustrate the program’s effect.

In a prepared statement and spoken remarks, Holmes highlighted behaviors the program emphasized — problem solving, civility and small-group supports — and said staff celebrate students in weekly town halls with recognitions such as “positive contributors.” “We are actually making an impact,” Holmes said, describing staff reactions to the survey data.

The board heard from a current student, Sean Carson, who described his experience before and after joining the Learning Center. “Before TLC, I was in a very bad spot in the high school,” Carson said. He told the board he failed his freshman year, had few friends and “hated going to school.” After joining the Learning Center, he said, staff worked with him rather than only imposing punishment, and he is now “passing all of my classes and even made honor roll because of TLC.”

Directors asked how the program marks improvement and what supports the board should continue. Director Moses asked, “How are you, based on obvious improvements in many of these areas? How are you celebrating that with the school?” Holmes described town-hall recognitions, weekly students-of-the-month, and other small rewards used by staff. Director Welch asked, “What do you all need from us to to continue to be so successful?” Holmes replied, “Seriously, just keep supporting us the way you have been.”

Holmes said participation in the survey increased by about 12 students year to year and that overall response rate was “about 88%” because the survey is conducted within neighborhood groups. He also noted a staff turnover this year — four new teachers — which likely explains some areas that slipped slightly in the survey results.

The presentation included an invitation for board members to ask questions and hear a student perspective; several directors commended the student who spoke and the program’s staff. The board did not take formal action during the presentation; Holmes’ request was that the district maintain current levels of support for the Learning Center.

The Learning Center materials and the student’s remarks were presented during the board’s agenda item on alternative education programming.