Date: August 21, 2007

Charlotte High School and Jefferson High School have reduced the number of disruptive incidents in their buildings and have been removed from the New York State Education Department’s list of schools reporting high numbers of disruptive incidents.

The State announced its list for 2007 today; it is based on incidents reported in school years 2005-06 and 2006-07.  Rochester’s Roberto Clemente School No. 8 was added to the list.

“As schools become more impacted by community problems and the increase of violence in our neighborhoods, planning to reduce incidents in our classrooms is critical,” said Rochester Interim Superintendent of Schools Dr. William C. Cala. “By implementing effective practices, Charlotte and Jefferson have significantly decreased problems and fostered activities that have enhanced the climate for students and staff. Students feel safe and supported, and staff are responsive to issues and concerns that often begin at home and in neighborhoods across the city.”

Measures at Charlotte and Jefferson to reduce problems leading to disruptive behavior include the following:

• Clearer expectations for students both academically and behaviorally
  
  
• Increased staff interaction with students to address root causes of disruptive behavior
  
  
• Increased communication with parents/guardians
  
  
• Increased community interaction in school programs
  
  
• Expanded programs in the school’s Student & Family Wellness Centers, including counseling, anger management, group counseling, youth intervention, and workshops on positive peer relations.
  
  
  Similar proactive measures are being put in place at School No. 8 to help the school make gains in this area. Specifically, the school is implementing the following:
  
  
  
• An Alternative to Suspension Program, in which students receive academic and behavioral support from a teacher and behavior specialist.
  
  
• A full-time Prevention Teacher (grant funded) to work with students on making positive choices and resolving conflicts peacefully.
  
  
• Establishment of a Family & Student Support Center in partnership with the YMCA.
  
  
• Addition of an on-site case manager from the Urban League of Greater Rochester to provide counseling and address student needs.
  
  
• Stronger presence of parents and clergy in supportive roles at the school.
  
  
• Character-building programs focused on preventing bullying and developing positive character traits.
  
  
• Professional development for staff in handling conflict in the classroom.