Our
Success Story in Vernon
The "Don't Laugh at Me" program has several components. First, the staff was committed to a "zero tolerance" attitude for four categories of behavior: 1) physical aggression, 2) verbal aggression/harassment, 3) teasing, and 4) disrespect. The staff developed common rules which were posted in critical places throughout the building, such as the cafeteria, playground, bathrooms and hallways, and also on the school buses, in order to establish clear and consistent expectations for behavior. In addition, the school adopted a new recess policy and revised procedures that made adult responses to incidences of negative student behavior more timely and appropriate.
For all grades K - 5, a major part of the plan involved the implementation of weekly classroom activities that focused on four themes: 1) expressing feelings, 2) caring, compassion, and cooperation, 3) resolving conflicts creatively, and 4) celebrating diversity. A variety of activities were selected that were geared for each grade level. Assemblies were scheduled on a regular basis in order to highlight the activities in each grade and also to reaffirm the school's commitment to the "Don't Laugh at Me" program. Everyone within the whole school community was considered a partner and was invited, including parents, paraprofessionals, secretaries, administrators, custodians and bus drivers.
Supporting this initiative, teachers in the intermediate grades paired with primary teachers to plan monthly activities with their "Buddy Classes," and every child was partnered with another. Activities included making "Hugs for Heroes" of 9/11 by creating a huge flag of appreciation for the heroes of our country, the firefighters, police officers, and ordinary citizens who were true heroes. We also made holiday cards for nursing homes, and we shared presentations of the 5th grade's "Wax Museum" of famous American characters, a holiday concert that focused on the diversity/unity themes and included Chinese New Year, German traditions, Hanukkah, and others. Many of these school events were video-taped and shown on Public Access TV, beautifully highlighting the diverse population at Skinner Road School.
A grant for $18,500 to further develop a positive school climate and increase respect for others was gratefully received. Part of the grant was used for the purchase of "Low Ropes" equipment that was designed to encourage the development of cooperation and leadership skills of at-risk students, as well as for the training for all children during physical education. An after-school program that focused on academic, social and team-building skills was developed with an inclusive partnership of parents. Additionally, a musical component was created that fit with the themes of the program.
Not only did our students become deeply involved in developing respectful attitudes and behaviors toward others, but the adults in the building began working with other staff members, appreciating each other's uniqueness and developing new relationships. Parents and substitute teachers commented favorably about the "new and improved atmosphere" within the building. Surveys were completed by teachers and paraprofessionals, and the majority felt that the "Don't Laugh at Me" program was an overwhelming success.
Now, finding new ways to expand on the themes of the program is continuing, as is a fine-tuning of the activities. Skinner Road School is a happier, more caring and more productive school, thanks to this outstanding program. And we'll be watching those test scores since we're sure they will rise as a result!
Frances V. Bilodeau, Principal
