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Middle school leaders credit "Capturing Kids' Hearts" with early discipline and climate improvements
Summary
Middle school principals reported initial successes from year-one implementation of the Capturing Kids' Hearts framework: leadership teams trained, social contracts used in classrooms, reduced referrals for insubordination and improved transitions; presenters outlined goals to increase consistency across classrooms for 2026-27.
Middle school principals presented an overview of the first-year implementation of the Capturing Kids' Hearts (CKH) framework at the May 18 board meeting, telling trustees the program has improved school climate and reduced certain disciplinary referrals.
Presenters described CKH as a research-based framework emphasizing relationship building and a shared language for behavior and accountability. "We engage, we explore, we communicate, we empower, and we launch," a presenter summarized of the Excel model underpinning the program. Principals said CKH practices include intentional greetings at classroom doors, social contracts developed with students, celebration of positive behaviors and monthly CKH leadership huddles.
The presentation cited early indicators: fewer referrals for insubordination and disrespectful conduct, stronger student-to-student and student-to-adult connections, and more respectful transitions in hallways. The principals recommended focusing on training new staff, embedding CKH language in agendas, and strengthening teacher leadership for the 2026-27 goals.
Board members praised the initiative and asked for year-over-year data; one trustee said he was "interested to see year over year how that increases." The presentation concluded with a commitment to ongoing coaching and feedback cycles to sustain the practices.
No formal board action was required for the information-only report.
