Celebrating Six Years of Progress with the School Climate Transformation Grant

Six years ago, Sevier School District was excited and honored to be awarded a School Climate Transformation Grant. This grant was a catalyst for creating lasting change in our schools, enabling us to focus on building a positive and supportive climate and culture. We want every student and staff member to feel valued, safe, and heard.

When we first applied for the grant, our vision was clear: to cultivate a school environment that supported not only academic success but also the mental and emotional well-being of our students and staff. Through the support of this grant, we have made strides in addressing a wide range of areas, including mental health, opioid and suicide prevention, restorative practices, and trauma-informed approaches. The true success lies in the dedication and commitment of our teachers, administrators, and staff—who have brought these initiatives to life in ways that are nothing short of inspiring.

One of the most profound shifts we’ve seen is the widespread adoption of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) across all levels in every school. It has been heartening to see how our educators have embraced this framework, creating an atmosphere where positive behaviors are reinforced, and every student is encouraged to be their best self. This shift has not only improved student behavior but has also fostered a stronger sense of community and support within our schools.

I also want to acknowledge the immense dedication our staff has shown in integrating restorative practices and trauma-informed strategies into their teaching. By creating spaces where students feel heard and understood, our educators have fostered environments where learning and emotional growth go hand in hand. The impact of these efforts is immeasurable, as students are provided with the tools they need to navigate challenges with resilience and empathy.

The grant has supported us in developing an Early Warning System that helps us identify and respond to students at-risk before challenges become crises. This proactive approach, supported by data-driven decision-making, has helped us intervene early and provide the necessary supports to keep students on track.

The professional development opportunities that have come through this grant have also been instrumental. We’ve had the privilege of learning from some of the most respected leaders in education, including Jimmy Casas, Tom Schimmer, and Myron Dueck, whose mentorship has strengthened our leadership and instructional practices. We’ve also benefited from the expertise of Dr. Jody Carrington, whose training on trauma-informed approaches has empowered our educators to better support students facing personal challenges. In addition, our commitment to total health and wellness training for all certified staff has ensured that our teachers and administrators are equipped to care for both their students and themselves.

We’ve made great strides in addressing the mental health needs of our students, providing resources, and creating open spaces for critical conversations around topics like illegal drug use and suicide prevention. These initiatives, along with our focus on restorative practices, have helped us create a culture of empathy and understanding where students can thrive both academically and emotionally. Their commitment to fostering an environment where students feel safe, respected, and empowered is what truly sets our schools apart.

As we close out this successful chapter, we are excited to continue building on these achievements. The work we’ve done over the last six years has set a strong foundation for the future, and we remain committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and positive school environment for all.

Thank you to our dedicated staff, students, families, and community partners for their continued support in making these initiatives a reality. Together, we are creating a brighter future for our students, one where every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Cade Douglas, Ph.D.
Superintendent
Sevier School District