These teachers asked kids one silly question before class. Behavior problems dropped 50 percent.
In a world where traditional disciplinary methods are increasingly scrutinized, Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Atlanta has embraced a refreshingly simple yet effective approach to improving student behavior. By asking students a whimsical question before class, such as their favorite pizza topping, teachers foster a moment of connection that has led to a remarkable 50% drop in behavior problems. This initiative, part of a broader shift towards prioritizing relationships and positive culture over rigid lesson plans, underscores the power of kindness and empathy in educational settings.
The success of this approach is not just anecdotal; the school has been recognized with a Kindness Designation, and other schools are beginning to take note. Data from the University of Chicago Education Lab highlights that restorative practices can significantly reduce student arrests and suspensions. This story exemplifies how small shifts in perspective and practice can lead to significant improvements in school environments, emphasizing the importance of connection and understanding over punitive measures.
Constructive analysis
The constructive-journalism lens: not just what happened, but what works.
- The problem
- The challenge of reducing behavior problems and improving school culture without relying on punitive disciplinary methods.
- The actions
- Teachers ask a simple, engaging question before class to build connections and prioritize relationships over content.
- Evidence of progress
- Discipline referrals have dropped by about half, attendance has improved, and the school has been awarded a Kindness Designation.
- What we can learn
- Other schools can replicate this approach by integrating small moments of connection and empathy into their daily routines, fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment.
PERMA profile of this story
How this story scores across the PERMA dimensions.
- Positive Emotion
- 8
- Engagement
- 7
- Relationships
- 9
- Meaning
- 8
- Accomplishment
- 7
Character strengths in play
Top VIA strengths this story embodies.
Kindness
Teachers are encouraged to take a softer, gentler approach in general, focusing on building positive relationships with students first.
Hope
The school was named one of 32 schools nationwide to receive a Kindness Designation for 2025-26 from Teach Kindness.
Perspective
Instead of suspending kids, a school using restorative practices might offer counseling, mediation, and conflict resolution.
Try this today
Try starting your next group meeting or family gathering with a light-hearted question, such as 'What's your favorite dessert?' Notice how this simple act can set a positive tone and strengthen connections among participants.