Strathaven High School showcases 'Pathways to Student Success' program and survey gains
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Summary
Principal Andy Benzinger and his leadership team presented initiatives to boost school climate, tiered supports, high‑quality instruction and freshman transitions; presenters cited Panorama survey improvements and showed student testimonials.
Strathaven High School principal Andy Benzinger and a team of assistant principals presented the building’s 'Pathways to Student Success' initiative to the board on March 23, highlighting four focal areas: climate and culture (PBIS and Wellness Wednesdays), tiered supports and interventions (fifth‑block contracts and a lunchtime learning lab), instructional practices (teacher PLCs and targeted professional development) and clearer freshman transitions (Freshman Academy and an electives fair).
Benzinger said the school used teacher leadership groups over the summer to craft building goals and emphasized coupling new practices with evidence. Assistant principals described weekly student‑support teams, a staff mentorship program, and efforts to measure increases in student belonging and adult‑student supportive relationships using Panorama survey data. Video testimonials played during the presentation featured students naming teachers and places they turn to for help.
The board praised the presentation’s student‑centered focus and data use; members lauded innovative approaches such as intentionally frustrating tasks to build resilience and the lunchtime learning lab pilot. Several board members asked follow‑up questions on equity and measurement; administrators said many programs are in early stages but show positive early indicators.
What the board requested: continued updates on implementation and data, and opportunities to scale successful school‑level aftercare or support practices district‑wide where feasible.
