Monroe Update - Behavior Responses

Dear Monroe Families,

As we begin a new semester, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the experiences of both our students and staff from the first semester. Over the past few months, I have actively sought feedback from staff members and students, while also informally gathering insights from families. Your perspectives have been invaluable in helping us identify ways to strengthen our school’s climate and culture, ensuring the best outcomes for everyone.

This feedback has highlighted key areas for improvement, including empowering teachers as the leaders in their classrooms, holding students more accountable for their actions, and increasing clarity and consistency in our behavior response system.

To better support our students and staff, the administrative team has made a few adjustments to our procedures for the second semester. These changes are designed to:

• Empower teachers with increased flexibility to manage behaviors effectively within their classrooms.

• Streamline documentation of student behaviors to ensure clarity and fairness.

• Administer tiered consequences more consistently and in a timely manner.

Our goal is to create a learning environment where students thrive academically and socially while reducing repeated behavioral concerns. We believe these efforts will lead to greater accountability and a more positive school culture.

To support this work, we are introducing an updated Behavior Matrix (known as the Level 5 System). Families play a vital role in this process, and we encourage you to discuss appropriate classroom and school-wide behaviors with your student(s). Key expectations include arriving on time, actively participating in learning, and demonstrating respect for themselves, their teachers, and their peers. With your partnership, we know our students can meet and exceed these expectations.

Here’s an overview of the Behavior Matrix:

1. Verbal Warning – A teacher will first address the behavior with a reminder to correct it.

2. In-Classroom Intervention – If the behavior persists, the teacher may implement strategies such as a one-on-one conversation, a seat change, or partnering with a buddy teacher.

3. Reflection/Restorative Conversation – If needed, the student will complete a brief reflection or engage in a restorative conversation to reset and refocus on the class.

4. Referral to Dean – Continued behaviors will result in a referral to the dean for tier-two consequences, which may include detention, a therapist referral, a parent conference, community service, or suspension, depending on the situation and the student’s history.

If a student is assigned in-school suspension (ISS), they will complete their assigned time, whether it’s for the remainder of the day, a full day, or multiple days, based on the situation.

We believe that consistent documentation, coupled with clear and fair consequences, will help deter behaviors and create a better environment for all.

Thank you for your continued partnership and input as we work together to ensure success for every student. If you have questions or additional feedback, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

P.S. A few important reminders as we begin the new semester:

• Basic Supplies: Please ensure your student comes to school prepared with at least a pencil and a notebook, as these are essential for their daily learning.

• Uniform Expectations: Take a moment to review the uniform requirements with your student. Slides, leggings, and hoodies are not permitted. To support students, we have provided long sleeves and sweaters that meet the dress code.

• Outerwear Guidelines: Coats and hoodies must be placed in lockers at the start of the school day. Please help reinforce this expectation with your student to ensure a smooth transition into class.

Thank you for your support in helping students meet these expectations, which contribute to a focused and productive learning environment.

Warm regards,

Krystal Medina - Assistant Principal

medinkr@tulsaschools.org

Monroe Demonstration Academy