Prairie River Middle School reports fewer referrals and improved literacy as district adds a second SRO

Prairie River Middle School administrators told the Merrill Area School District Board of Education that focused leadership teams, a behavior framework and more consistent classroom practices have coincided with substantial declines in behavior referrals and improved literacy results.

"We have a really dang good plan on paper," said Cassie Schulten, Prairie River Middle School administrator, describing the school’s continuous improvement plan and playbook used to onboard staff and standardize classroom routines. Presenters described action teams that run targeted interventions and a behavior framework (CHAMPS and other tools) that teachers use to restore consistency and reduce disruptions.

Why it matters: School officials said fewer classroom and office referrals mean students spend more time in instruction. PRMS staff reported that the share of students with 0–1 referral rose from about 54% toward roughly 70% and that 296 students had zero referrals — results the presenters attributed to consistent teacher practice, guided instruction and structured PLCs.

Managing disruptions: Board members pressed presenters on how classrooms keep instruction moving when a student has a major incident. PRMS staff outlined a 'calling tree' and backup supports — rally room supervisors, counselors and coordinated radio procedures — so teachers can continue lessons while staff de‑escalate or relocate the student. "We can remove students from the room; we’ve got a backup plan of where they’re going and the teacher continues to teach," a presenter said.

SRO model and community messaging: The board also discussed a new two‑SRO model that will expand coverage across schools in the district. One board member warned increased visible police presence can be perceived negatively; Chief Bennett and district staff said the district will emphasize proactive messaging about safety and student support when the model is rolled out.

What the board heard: Specific claims and data cited by PRMS presenters included a reported more‑than‑50% drop in certain referral measures, a reported rise to roughly 70% of students with 0–1 referrals, and a count of 296 students with zero referrals compared with the prior year. Presenters also said seventh and eighth graders met literacy goals at about a 90% rate and that ELA instructional time had been increased.

Next steps: Staff said they will continue fidelity checks, strengthen parent engagement and run PLCs with added structure to sustain gains. The board asked for continued reporting on outcomes and safety‑net effectiveness.

Sources and provenance: The presentation and Q&A are recorded in the meeting transcript and administrative report attachments provided to the board.