Bright Spot Schools: Shining a Light on Strategies for Academic and Behavioral Success

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Sunday 1:45 pm
  In Poster Session: A Collection of Studies Covering Varied Topics of Applied Research in Schools

Abstract

Using a strengths-based approach, this study examines the positive efforts made within a large, urban school district to reduce academic and behavior disproportionality. The researchers employed a descriptive research design to calculate achievement, graduation, and suspension disproportionality ratios, resulting in eleven “Bright Spot schools” with ratios closest to 1.0 suggesting equity in the outcomes among racial/ethnic student groups. They interviewed school principals to highlight effective approaches that may have contributed to this equity and conducted student focus groups and examined existing teacher survey data to triangulate results. The findings show that principals consistently and intentionally utilized best practices not specific programs to promote outcomes. Students reflected positively on these practices, and teacher survey results supported their effectiveness.

Authors

• Colleen Graham Paeplow, Wake County Public School System

• Anisa Clair Rhea, Wake County Public School System

• Meghan Scrimgeour, Wake County Public School System

• Ejike J. Edeh, University of Arkansas

• Brittany Alligood, Wake County Public School System