At Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School, teachers have adopted a brief, lighthearted question at the start of each class, leading to a significant drop in behavioral issues and a more positive learning environment.
- Teachers ask a fun question daily to spark connection
- Behavior problems decreased by 50% since program began
- Restorative practices prioritize kindness over exclusion
What happened
Two years ago, Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School changed its approach to student behavior by prioritizing relationships and positive culture over focusing solely on lesson plans. Teachers start every class with a 30-second moment to ask students a lighthearted question, such as their favorite pizza topping or what makes them happy. This simple move shifts the classroom mood and sets a positive tone for learning.
The impact has been profound. Discipline referrals, which previously clogged the administration’s time, have dropped by half. Attendance has improved as students feel more connected and supported, and incidents of fighting and disruption have lessened. This demonstrates how small changes to classroom culture can lead to meaningful improvements in student behavior and engagement.
Why it feels good
This approach aligns with restorative practices increasingly popular in schools nationwide, which focus on empathy and repairing harm rather than punishment. Removing students for misbehavior often worsens problems and deprives them of valuable classroom time, but Martin Luther King, Jr. Middle School’s model encourages accountability through kindness and positive relationships.
Research supports these changes: schools embracing restorative methods have seen significant drops in student arrests and repeat behavioral issues. For kids who often face difficult circumstances at home, a gentler, more understanding approach from teachers helps them feel valued and nurtures their personal growth, rather than alienating them.
What to enjoy or watch next
Schools eager to replicate this success can start simply by incorporating brief moments of connection before lessons. Encouraging teachers to ask lighthearted questions is an easy way to build trust and improve classroom climate. Over time, these small interventions add up to a more welcoming, inclusive environment where learning can thrive.
For families and communities, watching how schools embrace restorative strategies provides hope that students receive the support and care they need to succeed. The shift from exclusionary discipline to empathy and restoration could become a widespread trend, helping kids across the country feel safer and more motivated every day.