Navigating Discipline: Balancing Empathy and Control in Middle School Classrooms

10/09/23 • 32 min

Ever grappled with the unruly classroom? Lost sleep over how to manage disruptive behavior? As educators, we've all been there. Join Victoria Hammond and Dr. Jennifer Erdmann as we dissect the problems and potential solutions surrounding discipline in middle school education. We pull back the veil on the myriad sources of disruptive behavior, from unstable home environments to peer pressure and academic frustration.
Navigating the waters of discipline often feels like a high-pressure balancing act, especially when a student with a known history of issues enters the classroom. How do we provide necessary support to such a student without detracting from the learning experience of the other 25 students? It's a tough question, but together, we'll explore the challenges, nuances and strategies involved. From the importance of clear communication and revisiting expectations, to the role of parents and the necessity of having systems in place, no stone is left unturned.
But discipline is not just about rules and consequences. We believe in the power of empathy and compassion. The final segment of our discussion shines a spotlight on the role of these attributes in decreasing discipline issues. From teaching these values to students, to fostering them among educators, we understand that empathy and compassion can be game-changers in the classroom. Join us in this collaborative journey as we strive to create more supportive and understanding learning environments for our students. Share your thoughts, strategies, and experiences on our social media pages. Together, we can make our classrooms not just places of learning, but spaces of emotional growth and understanding.

Previous Episode

Climbing the Oak: Deconstructing and Reimagining School Climate and Culture

Have you ever pictured school as a majestic oak tree? Bear with us. Just as every tree has its climate and culture, so does every school. The day-to-day experiences form the climate, while the deeply entrenched values and beliefs represent the culture. It's fascinating, right? On this episode, we're taking a journey deep into the heartwood to unravel the complexities of school climate and culture. Let's get ready to explore the raw and real essence of our learning environments.
Climbing up the tree, we first encounter school climate - the branch of our discussion that spans safety, respect, communication, collaboration, inclusivity, and so much more. We look at how these elements intertwine to shape a nurturing environment that fosters educational growth. But as we delve further into the tree, we discover the roots - the culture. Here, we dare to highlight the challenges of remodeling a school's culture, underscoring the collective responsibility of everyone involved. Every leaf, every branch, every root matters.
Finally, we find ourselves at the top of the tree, poised for change. Inspired by Grunert and Whitaker's profound book, School Culture Rewired, we venture into the six different types of school culture and how they mold our learning spaces. We dig into the importance of communication and collaboration in instigating change, and discuss the influence of school discipline, teacher perceptions, and even loneliness in schools. It's a high view, but it's worth it. So, climb this tree with us and let's reimagine the climate and culture of our schools together.

Next Episode

Addressing the Invisible: Unpacking Mental Health Struggles and Solutions in Schools

In our latest episode, we sit down with Brittany Dean, a seasoned school counselor, and a registered therapist who is deeply aware of the mental health challenges our students are facing. She offers invaluable insights on the rising mental health issues among students and shares practical tips on identifying struggling students, understanding their behavior changes, and effectively navigating this as an educator.
We illuminate the importance of providing effective mental health support in schools and educators managing their own mental wellbeing. We also delve into the power of kindness and glimmers, those little sparks that can refuel our spirits. Brittany emphasizes how these acts of kindness can serve as powerful tools for practicing empathy and uplifting those around us.
As we wrap up our enlightening conversation, we bring to light the need for more professionals in schools, data collection for student interventions, and the significance of coping skills while disciplining. So tune in and join us in this essential, mind-opening conversation - it's one that every educator, parent, and anyone who interacts with students simply cannot afford to miss!

Middle School Life - Navigating Discipline: Balancing Empathy and Control in Middle School Classrooms

Transcript

Speaker 100:00:04.048

Welcome to Middle School Life , the podcast

Speaker 100:00:07.956

where teachers and administrators can exchange ideas and learn from one another . Your hosts , assistant Principal Victoria Hammond and Middle School teacher Dr Jennifer Erdman , helped to bridge the gap between educators and administrators , discussing ways to create a more productive , efficient and