KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Darrin Slade’s tougher stance on discipline in the schools seems to be paying off, better than even he expected.
The latest numbers on behavior and attendance are improved and absenteeism is down in Kalamazoo Public Schools by 15% over the last three years, exceeding their goal for this year. They have seen 37% fewer disciplinary problems, far fewer suspensions and fights have become “rare”.
Student Services Director Lisa Dewey says teacher morale is up, application of discipline is more uniform, and so is messaging.
“It’s not that the rules have changed, it’s not the consequence that’s been changed, but we are very explicit and we’re very vocal.”
Dewey says it starts at the top with the Superintendent.
“As the leader within our district with our principals within our teachers they feel very supported by his belief and support in strong discipline within their schools.”
She says hiring the new truancy officer has also made a significant difference, and an increase in mental health services has also helped.
Dr. Slade says that was not what he expected.
“We all want students accountable for their behavior so I thought they would be going up, when Miss Dewey said that she was surprised when she went back and checked two or three times.”
He says they hope what they are doing will continue to help further bring down the worrisome statistics that were problems even before the pandemic.
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