FeedsSchools report decreased discipline referrals
Student discipline and behavior problems were again the topic of discussion at the meeting of the Van Buren Public Schools District Board of Education last week.
Sheila Brown, principal at Belleville High School, said the school is not out of control, but they do have some disciplinary problems.
“When I first came here, I thought our teachers are terrific enforcers, but are they building connections?” she said. “Since then we’ve tried to take some of the battle out of the classroom and hallways and enable the teachers to teach.”
Others, however, have reported gangs and other problems that leave some students fearful during school.
“When a coach comes up to me and tells me he’s afraid for my kids, that’s scary,” said Keith Johnston, treasurer of the board. “I don’t think that my kids feel threatened at school, but it’s scary to hear that.”
Board Trustee Toni Hunt said she has also received calls from parents about the change in climate at Belleville High School.
“People—including my own sister—have moved their kids out of the school district,” she said.
Compared to surrounding districts, Van Buren schools falls in the middle with reportable disciplinary infractions from Standard and Poor’s in 2005. Administrators said their reports show referrals have dramatically decreased.
In total, 775 students were involved in referrals for the first semester this year compared to 2,474 last year. Proactive steps by staff, the senior class, the alternative education program and new programs, such as the at-risk program and the student leadership team, were all contributing factors, according to officials.
“There’s so many things we’re trying to change to build positive steps,” said Assistant Principal Mike Van Tassel.
“I’m glad the numbers are down, but we have a long way to go. We need to get tougher as a board,” said Johnston. “It’s not about race, it’s about character. If we set standards and stick to it I think the kids will finally get it.”
Van Tassel said he feels this is a serious issue.
“The crowded atmosphere at the high school feeds this behavior on a daily basis and I don’t think that should be glossed over,” he said.
“I’ve had three kids graduate from Belleville and I’ve never feared for their safety,” added Assistant Principal Lawrence Warren.
Brown has contacted the federal government about identifying gangs in the area, she said.
