Two Rivers pilots bundled middle-school science and expands PBIS/restorative practices at LB Clark

Two Rivers Public School District administrators and teacher teams described classroom and behavioral initiatives at the board meeting, including a pilot to reorganize middle-school science instruction and expanded PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) with restorative practices.

Seventh- and eighth-grade teachers Isabella Declean, Mercedes Gothier and Jenny Klein said the district is piloting a shift away from a single-topic conceptual model toward a 'bundled progression' that blends physical, life and earth science across grades so students encounter all three content areas each year. The pilot unit connects thermal energy to weather and climate and uses a district 'driving question' (referenced in the school as the district theme) to focus student projects; parents received an introductory letter and initial parent response was positive.

Administrators and the PBIS 'culturizers' team described how data from Skyward referrals helped drive operational changes: the middle school split seventh- and eighth-grade lunches into two waves and added advisory to reduce referrals around lunchtime. Nicole Dron and student-services staff explained that they review nightly Skyward reports for major referrals, ensure staff process incidents consistently, and use restorative conferences, reflections and positive-action forms to support return-to-class procedures.

Staff outlined the Building Consultation Team (BCT) process for tiered supports: universal (tier 1) supports for most students, tier 2 targeted interventions for about 10–20 students, and tier 3 individualized plans where needed. Teachers reported the schoolwide behavior matrix is being used in about 88% of observed classrooms and noted a recent goal achievement related to reducing major referrals over rolling four-week periods. The team also plans to add a half-sheet record so teachers receive office follow-up documentation about actions taken when students are referred to student services.

Ending: Board members expressed support for scheduling a work session (tentative April 15) to hear building presentations, ask questions and develop a shared understanding of behavior systems across the district.