Shepard Elementary School’s 50-yearold brick building is nestled in a middle-class neighborhood in Northern New Jersey within commuter distance of New York City. The school’s caring climate is immediately obvious each morning as all teachers greet students at their classroom doors. In addition, visitors are likely to hear many heart-warming stories regarding students with disabilities that confirm the caring culture of the school. Through the practice of peer mediation, students exhibit the ability to settle disagreements amicably, using polite words and engaging in civil conversation to state how they feel instead of using angry terms or being cruel. Professional learning communities (PLCs) have provided a vehicle for creating a caring community, making it possible for teachers from different grade levels and paraprofessionals to work together. Shepard’s PLCs also enable teachers to identify students’ learning and emotional needs. Teachers target at-risk students, brainstorm strategies to help them succeed, and then track their progress via an electronic student information form. Shepard’s character team has assisted the other 11 elementary schools in their district with establishing teams and developing action plans.

Printer Friendly