Middle-school leaders report major drop in suspensions after new supports

At the board meeting, Justin Trumka, identified in the transcript as the presenter for middle-school celebrations, told the Grosse Ile Township Schools Board of Education that the middle school had seen notable declines in disciplinary removals and increased support services.

"This year, we've had a 37% decrease in suspension rates from year to date. Additionally, a 60% decrease in days out of school suspension," Justin Trumka said, attributing the improvement to expanded dean-of-students support, implementation of PBIS incentives and increased counseling contact.

Trumka said the dean had 113 official student visits and that counseling staff held more than 400 student meetings while a counselor was on leave, and that the school had increased teacher observations and professional development time to strengthen classroom instruction. He described new programs including expanded PBIS rewards, peer lunch groups and a "portrait of a graduate" recognition for eighth graders, and noted partnerships that supported STEAM activities.

Board members praised the results and credited staff and leadership for the changes. The presenter noted that some positions are currently funded through short-term funding sources (described in the transcript as "SR funded"); the transcript does not provide the full funding breakdown or document references. The detailed behavior report used to prepare the presentation was referenced as available in the board packet but was not fully quoted in the public meeting.

The board recognized these outcomes but did not take formal action on the discipline report; administrators will continue to monitor metrics and support ongoing programming.

Ending: The board applauded the work and moved on to other agenda items.