How Our School Nurtures Students’ Positive Behaviors

Our students are encouraged to reach their fullest potential in their social, emotional, and academic skill development. Sakamoto School created the following system of support for three tiers of student growth needs (see PBIS: Positive Behavioral Intervention & Supports at www.pbis.org):

1. Tier 1 intervention provides Quality First Instruction for all students. Students are given added academic support with afterschool academic camps, Saturday programs, peer projects, and individualized strategies that nurture growth.
2. Tier 2 supplemental programs include a pull out five day a week reading program for students who need added support in how to effectively comprehend what is being read at grade level instruction. Many of these students test at one to two grade levels below their current grade levels.
3. Tier 3 students are given individualized tutorial support. These students also receive comprehensive help in their beliefs about their abilities to excel over time. Some students struggle with focusing in class. Others may eventually qualify for a resource specialist in reading. Many speak more than one language and need extra support to process reading sound decoding in English. Some are lacking the self-confidence that reading is challenging and become easily frustrated. When we simplify the learning process for these students, they start to feel more confident in their learning abilities. Over time, these students develop the skills and self-confidence required to adapt to challenging reading assignments.

Throughout the school year, our teachers are expanding innovative instructional strategies. Their classroom level programs continue to expand as we meet the individualized learning needs of more students.

In the comments section below, share how your child’s school effectively meets students’ learning needs.