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Schools

If You’re an Educator

You’ve probably heard a lot about the benefits of social-emotional learning.  There are numerous studies showing that social-emotional learning:

 

  • Improves academic performance, health, and well-being

  • Reduces and prevents conduct problems, emotional distress, and substance abuse

Positive Discipline encourages students to take more initiative, be helpful, and practice leadership skills.  When teachers implement strategies like regular class meetings, students look for win-win solutions, develop and discover their abilities, demonstrate accountability, appreciate and value their self-worth, and make better decisions for themselves and others.

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If You’re an Administrator

You’ve likely wanted to ensure the creation of a positive school culture.  The Positive Discipline approach involves administrators, teachers, and students in true dialogue and practical problem-solving on real issues of concern.  We believe it’s possible and imperative to build a structure of trust and respect among and between students, teachers, and staff. We offer an operating series to build the school community using common language and a shared vision and approach. 

 

Positive Discipline in the Classroom (PDC)

Positive Discipline in the Classroom is a social-emotional learning program used by educators and administrators to implement the skills, tools, and consistency that improve each classroom’s structure and culture.  This research-based classroom management program empowers teachers with skills to build their students’ sense of and contribution to community.  Our approach also helps students adapt better to changes and challenges in their lives, and encourages student achievement both academically and personally. 

 

PDCR offers two Positive Discipline program options for schools and school districts in Santa Cruz County and Monterey County:
 

  • Positive Discipline in the Classroom (PDC) - Creates a respectful school climate through social-emotional learning, character education, solution focused, and effective discipline.  PDC includes lesson plans and class meeting tools that teach communication, cooperation, problem-solving, and self-regulatory skills.

  • Whole School Model - A blueprint for implementing Positive Discipline school-wide including lesson plans, classroom meeting tips, and parenting classes.  Under this model, in any given school, the principal, along with no less than 80% of the school’s entire staff, fully support the implementation of Positive Discipline trainings and classroom resources as part of a 3-year plan to fully incorporate the approach and track and assess its impact.  

PD Research and Schools

Studies have shown the positive impact of PD in schools (Resnick et al, 1997; Battistich, 1999; Goodenow, 1993).  For instance, a student's perception of being part of the school community or being connected to school increases academic performance while decreasing the incidence of psychological issues and risky behaviors including:

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  • emotional distress and suicidal thoughts/attempts

  • cigarette, alcohol, and marijuana use

  • violent behaviors

FACILITATORS

Positive Discipline in Our Local Schools

PDCR has received many requests from schools along the Central Coast for Positive Discipline to be implemented into daily classroom activities. Our program effectively addresses the stresses felt by teachers, parents, and school administrators to achieve high test scores, implement new curriculum, and address behavioral problems associated with bullying and other forms of violence.

 

These schools are using Positive Discipline in the Classroom school-wide:

  • Monarch Community School

  • Alianza Charter School

  • Rio del Mar Elementary Schoo

  • Calabasas Elementary School

  • Costanoa High School

  • Tierra Pacifica Charter School

  • Mar Vista Elementary School

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We have a network of teachers throughout the central coast area who have taken a 2 day Positive Discipline in the Classroom certification training. These teachers are utilizing Positive Discipline in their classroom management and teaching of social and emotional skills even if their school has not formally adopted the approach. 

 

The parenting classes offered as part of this program help introduce Positive Discipline in an integrated way for young people.  With Positive Discipline in the Classroom and the Whole School Model, the educational and parent partnership is strengthened.  By offering parenting classes in dozens of preschools and schools we’re able to reach thousands of families who will be better equipped to encourage their students to achieve academic success and personal goals.

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Partner With Us!

We deeply believe in supporting community educators and invite you to partner with us to learn more about how Positive Discipline can guide student behavior in effective ways.  Email us at info@pdcrcc.org or call 831-288-0088.

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