Behavior intervention specialist, Edythe J. Hayes Middle School

I believe schools should be filled with creativity, energy and relentless enthusiasm, and should be safe, welcoming and supportive environments for all students. So how do we make that happen? 

As educators, we first need to clearly define for ourselves how we expect our students to behave and what we intend for them to learn. Second, we need to design and implement effective and engaging methods of reaching and teaching all students. Third, we need to acknowledge, recognize and reinforce students when they meet behavioral and academic expectations. Finally, we need to have effective structures to help students who have gaps in learning, as well as corrective procedures to help students who have not yet mastered behavioral expectations.

Working in the guidance office, I strive to help create a safe and civil learning environment through our Foundations (PBIS) Team, Character Education Program, WEB Program (eighth-grade mentoring for all sixth-graders) and Peer Mediation Program. I am fortunate to work in partnership and collaboration with a remarkably talented and dedicated team of teachers, assistants, administrators, guidance and support staff as we strive to reach our goal: Mission Unstoppable!