ROARS: A Positive Behavior Program That Works for ALL Students!

Format

Individual Presentation

Format

Individual Presentation

First Presenter's Institution

Rankin County School District-McLaurin High School

First Presenter’s Email Address

katie.nelson@rcsd.ms

First Presenter's Brief Biography

Mrs. Katie Nelson is an accomplished educator with a strong background in special education and educational leadership. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Special Education from Mississippi State University and a Master's degree in Mild/Moderate Disabilities from William Carey University. Mrs. Nelson furthered her education with a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Mississippi through Principal Corps. With 16 years of experience in education, including 7 years in administration, Mrs. Nelson is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Educational Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi. In her role as Assistant Principal at McLaurin High School in the Rankin County School District, she oversees technology, Title 1, Career and Technical Education (CTE), fixed assets, and the ROARS positive behavior program. During her time as an administrator, Mrs. Nelson worked with a team of students to secure a $100,000 grant through the National Foundation for Governors' Fitness Councils for her school to establish a fitness center on campus. Additionally, she successfully obtained a grant through Mississippi Professional Educators to enhance teacher morale at her school. Most recently, Mrs. Nelson was selected as a member of the Special Education Policy Task Force through the Mississippi Department of Education. Mrs. Katie Nelson is married to her husband of 12 years, Joseph Nelson, and they have three daughters. Her extensive educational background and experience underscore her passion for fostering academic excellence and creating a supportive learning environment.

Second Presenter's Institution

Rankin County School District

Second Presenter’s Email Address

ter202@rcsd.ms

Second Presenter's Brief Biography

Ms. Terri Peeler is a dedicated educator with a rich academic background and a fervent commitment to fostering positive change within the educational landscape. Armed with a Bachelor's degree in Special Education from Mississippi State University, Ms.Peeler embarked on a journey of learning and leadership. She has become a pivotal figure in the realm of special education and educational leadership. Building upon her foundational knowledge, Ms. Peeler pursued a Master's degree in Special Education with a focus on Emotional Behavior Disorders from the University of Southern Mississippi. This specialized training equipped her with the expertise needed to address the complex needs of students facing emotional and behavioral challenges. Undeterred by the demands of her profession, Ms.Peeler furthered her education with a Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Mississippi, obtained through the prestigious Principal Corps program. This credential positioned her for a leadership role, culminating in two years of administrative experience within the education sector. Currently serving as an Assistant Principal at McLaurin High School in the Rankin County School District, Terri plays a multifaceted role overseeing various critical aspects of school operations. As the school's testing coordinator, she ensures the smooth facilitation of assessment processes. Additionally, she administers the Special Education department and leads the Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) process, demonstrating her commitment to inclusive and supportive educational frameworks. She also spearheads attendance initiatives and serves as the ACT coordinator, guiding students through the college readiness journey with tailored ACT preparation programs. Ms.Peeler's passion for advocacy shines through in her dedication to students, particularly those with special needs. Special education is not just a profession for her; it's a calling—one she embrace wholeheartedly. Her ongoing pursuit of a Doctoral degree in Rural Education from the University of West Alabama reflects her commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by students in rural areas. Inspired by her father's legacy, Ms.Peeler endeavors to be an agent of change, driving positive development and innovation in rural school districts. Beyond her professional endeavors, Ms.Peeler finds joy and fulfillment in parenthood, cherishing moments with her energetic six-year-old son. Ms. Peeler's personal experiences, coupled with her professional expertise, shape her holistic approach to education, one rooted in empathy, advocacy, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

Location

Plimsoll

Strand #1

Heart: Social & Emotional Skills

Strand #2

Home: Family & Community Engagement

Relevance

Although McLaurin High School is not a registered PBIS school, the ROARS program aligns with the core principles of PBIS, which aims to create a positive and supportive school environment for all students. Sustainability is a key aspect of providing positive behavior and supports. This program allows administration and teachers to work hand in hand with students on improving social and emotional skills. At MHS, we are consistently collecting feedback on the current program to make improvements that meet the needs of our student population. As we see the needs of the students change, we collaborate with counselors, teachers, the ROARS committee, and our student council to review the data and use best practices to inform our decision making on how to move forward each 9 weeks. The ROARS program serves as a Tier 1 intervention that benefits all students, but the data retrieved each 9 weeks helps drive Tier 2 and 3 interventions for at-risk students. In addition, this program allows us to increase communication and collaboration with parents, community members, and other stakeholders.

Brief Program Description

In a school where you have overall positive behavior and attendance trends, how do you consistently reward the majority of your students for “doing what is right” while also providing incentives for your students that are deficient in the areas of behavior, attendance, and academic achievement? We figured it out! Learn how our Title 1 school took a simple idea and created a system of accountability that is shifting our culture and encourages ALL students! In this session, you will learn about how we work collaboratively with students, staff, and the community to implement our ROARS Card system!

Summary

This presentation, focusing on the ROARS positive behavior program implemented at McLaurin High School, aims to inform the audience on the key components of the program that focus on the values of Respect, Ownership, Attitude, Responsibility, and Service (ROARS). Our purpose is to help the audience establish or improve current positive behavior programs in their setting that foster a positive school culture while encouraging students to excel in the areas of behavior, attendance, and academics.

The objectives of our presentation include introducing the ROARS program, discussing the key components, showcasing its numerous benefits, offering a practical implementation plan, and addressing common challenges. We will emphasize the significance of ROARS and its real-world application for our students.

The heart of our proposal lies in the implementation plan, providing a guide for administrators, teachers, students, and parents to unite in promoting a positive behavior program that works best for each individual school. This framework encourages a school-wide commitment to these values, turning them into the cornerstone of our school's culture.

The benefits of implementing a positive behavior program are highlighted with evidence-based data, and inspiring success stories from students, teachers, and other stakeholders illustrate its potential to enrich the school environment, enhance behavior, improve attendance, and grow academic performance. To address the challenges that may arise during implementation, we offer practical solutions, ensuring a smooth and sustainable transition.Throughout the presentation, engagement is key. This presentation encourages interaction, questions, and offers activities to illustrate the application of ROARS or a similar program in various scenarios, making the framework relatable and actionable.

Evidence

Since implementing this program in 2021, our school has improved Average Daily Attendance (ADA) by 1%. We have also decreased In School Suspension by 24%, Out of School Suspension by 12%, and OVERALL discipline by 17%. We have seen concrete results by implementing the card system that accompanies ROARS, and we look forward to seeing the results of the 23-24 school year.

Learning Objective 1

Participants will be able to understand the ROARS framework and recognize its significance.

Learning Objective 2

Participants will be able to implement a positive behavior program in their individual setting.

Learning Objective 3

Participants will be able to easily track data to identify at-risk students.

Keyword Descriptors

Attendance, Behavior, Academics, ROARS Card, Rewards, Incentives, Tier 1, Social Skills, Emotional Skills, Community Involvement, Parental Engagement

Presentation Year

2025

Start Date

3-4-2025 2:45 PM

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Mar 4th, 2:45 PM

ROARS: A Positive Behavior Program That Works for ALL Students!

Plimsoll

In a school where you have overall positive behavior and attendance trends, how do you consistently reward the majority of your students for “doing what is right” while also providing incentives for your students that are deficient in the areas of behavior, attendance, and academic achievement? We figured it out! Learn how our Title 1 school took a simple idea and created a system of accountability that is shifting our culture and encourages ALL students! In this session, you will learn about how we work collaboratively with students, staff, and the community to implement our ROARS Card system!