If They Talk, Will You Listen? How Youth Perspectives Should Inform Behavior Management Practices Towards Sustainable School Climate Improvement.

Student behavior management remains a pivotal area of consideration for pre- and in-service secondary teachers and administrators alike. Hoping to gain deeper insight into the intersection between student behavior and school climate an action research methodology is employed to invite students into the debate as active school stakeholders. A case study from one inner city high school engaged 25 youth participants in a 6-week long focus group to learn about the research process through the creation and analysis of three arts-based data collection methods: timeline, relational map, and photovoice. Student led analysis of the data demonstrated that student behavior is inextricably linked to the quality of the social aspect of school climate. Healthy school climates which inspire positive student engagement and behavior are ones which: 1) foster positive student-staff relationships; 2) incorporate pedagogical practices which allow for student voice and choice; and 3) encourage the opportunity for redemption following infractions. While restorative measures are presented as effective ways to promote positive student behavior and healthy school climates, stakeholders wishing to authentically transform school systems are cautioned to reflect deeply on power and privilege to dismantle traditional structures for sustainable growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]