January 2026

Across the country, schools are rethinking traditional discipline models that rely heavily on punishment and exclusion. Instead, many districts are adopting restorative practices, an evidence-informed approach that focuses on building and maintaining positive relationships, repairing harm when it occurs, and fostering a supportive school community. Restorative practices include strategies such as community circles, conflict resolution discussions, and reflective conversations that help students take responsibility for their actions and understand the impact of their behavior on others. These practices aim to create learning environments grounded in respect, empathy, and mutual accountability rather than punishment alone. Research shows that schools implementing restorative approaches often see improvements in school climate, reductions in suspensions and office referrals, and stronger connections between students and staff.

In Salem City, the school community is actively shifting toward this restorative model as part of a broader effort to improve school culture and student outcomes. Educators and administrators are moving away from punitive discipline policies and incorporating restorative practices into daily interactions, classroom management, and responses to conflict. This shift reflects a commitment to supporting students’ social–emotional growth and fostering a climate where every member of the community feels heard and valued. By prioritizing relationships and shared responsibility, Salem City aims to build a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all students.

This month, Salem City’s commitment to restorative practices was further strengthened through professional development. Dr. Taylor, Mrs. Pla, Ms. Wilson, and Mr. Baker attended a training on Reframing Discipline, where they engaged in learning about restorative approaches and how to implement them effectively in school settings. This professional development equips key staff with the tools and strategies needed to support the district’s transition, reinforcing the belief that discipline can be an opportunity for growth and relationship building rather than simply punishment. Their participation in this training marks an important step in Salem City’s journey toward restorative school culture.

For more information on restorative practices, view the webinar, "Restorative Practices Done Right: Thinking Creatively About Connection and Relationships."

Flexible seating, offering a variety of seating choices instead of standard desks and chairs, can help increase student engagement and reduce behavior issues in the classroom. Teachers who’ve tried it report that students feel more comfortable, focus better, and take ownership of their learning.

Success comes from clear expectations and routines for how seats are used, starting small with what you already have, and letting students try different options before choosing what works best for them. While it may take some training at the beginning of the year, many educators find that flexible seating supports diverse learners and creates a more welcoming, student-centered space.

To read more about the benefits of flexible seating, read NEA's article, "How Flexible Seating Can Boost Classroom Engagement."

Learning looks different for everyone, and flexible seating helps make that possible!

Our students (and teachers) are choosing the spaces that help them focus,

feel comfortable, and do their best thinking.

As winter settles in, many students, and adults, begin to feel the effects of shorter days, colder weather, and long stretches without extended breaks. These "winter blues" can show up in schools as lower energy, increased irritability, difficulty focusing, and a noticeable drop in motivation. While this shift is completely normal, it can impact learning if not addressed intentionally.

What Winter Blues Look Like in the Classroom

During the winter months, students may:

• Struggle to stay engaged or focused

• Appear tired or withdrawn

• Show more frustration or emotional outbursts

• Experience increased anxiety or lack of confidence

For some students, especially those already facing stress, trauma, or mental health challenges, winter can intensify these feelings.

Why Motivation Drops

Limited sunlight can affect mood and sleep cycles. Add in cold weather, fewer opportunities for outdoor activity, and academic fatigue midway through the school year, and it’s no surprise students feel less motivated. This doesn’t mean students don’t care; it means they may need extra support to keep moving forward.

How Teachers Can Make a Difference

1. Focus on Connection First
A warm greeting, a quick check-in, or simply noticing how a student is doing can go a long way. Feeling seen and supported helps students re-engage even when energy is low.

2. Build in Movement and Brain Breaks
Short movement breaks, stretching, or interactive activities help reset attention and boost mood. Even a two-minute break can improve focus.

3. Celebrate Small Wins
Highlighting progress, no matter how small, builds confidence and motivation. Positive feedback encourages students to keep trying.

4. Keep Expectations High, with Support
Winter blues call for flexibility, not lower expectations. Clear goals paired with encouragement and scaffolding help students feel capable instead of overwhelmed.

5. Offer Choice and Relevance
Giving students options in how they learn or demonstrate understanding increases ownership and engagement.

6. Use Restorative and Trauma-Informed Approaches
When behavior or emotions shift, responding with empathy and problem-solving rather than punishment keeps students connected and learning.

A Season for Care and Encouragement

Winter can be challenging, but it also offers an opportunity to lean into relationships, creativity, and compassion. When teachers provide structure, warmth, and understanding, students are better able to push through the winter blues and stay motivated—even on the grayest days.

A little light from a caring adult can make all the difference.

If you or someone you know is struggling, remember that Safe NJ is available 24/7 for confidential support. You don’t have to handle winter stress alone.

Effective School Solutions at JFA implements a Nurtured Heart group therapy model that emphasizes effort, accountability, regulation, thriving, and meaningful connections (HEART and Connections). The program focuses on energizing success, effort, and positive identity while supporting students in developing inner wealth, self-regulation, accountability, emotional resilience, and a positive self-concept. Its core principles include noticing what is going right, recognizing that everyone has inner greatness, handling big emotions safely, viewing mistakes as opportunities for growth, and resetting calmly to move forward.

To celebrate the holiday season, students participated in a festive group celebration that included a therapeutic activity of decorating holiday rocks. Through this activity, students collaborated, expressed creativity, built friendships, strengthened connections, and celebrated one another in a supportive and engaging environment.

Effective School Solutions at SMS spread some holiday cheer prior to winter break with a festive Winter Celebration. Students participated in a gingerbread house competition, enjoyed a showing of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, and warmed up with hot chocolate.