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James Williams Middle School staff describe Behavior and Engagement Gains from Character Strong program
Summary
James Williams Middle School staff told the Rhinelander School Board they saw increased student engagement, improved peer interactions, stronger coping skills and fewer behavior referrals after implementing the Character Strong program districtwide.
James Williams Middle School administrators and counselors presented the school’s experience implementing the Character Strong program at the Rhinelander School District Board meeting on March 23.
Principal Kyle Raleigh and staff said the building-wide initiative uses monthly character traits, weekly lessons and lunchtime challenges, paired with staff and student recognition and prize incentives. Presenters reported participation data that they said show increased student engagement, improved peer interactions, stronger coping skills and a decline in behavior referrals since implementation.
The team described program components intended to support belonging and social-emotional skills: classroom lessons on a rotating trait, schoolwide recognition systems and targeted supports for students in need. Staff did not seek board action; the presentation was informational.
The presentation was given by Principal Kyle Raleigh, Associate Principal Ingrid Bodensteiner, counselors Melissa Hasselberger and Ryan Tienhaara, and school psychologist Britney Bolkema. No vote was taken on the program at the March 23 meeting.
