Educators Look to Curb Sioux Falls Student Behavior Problems

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Sioux Falls education officials are considering whether to expand an existing program in public schools as educators seek more help handling student behavior problems.

The Argus Leader reports the program called Boys Town teaches students good behavior through lessons interspersed in class time. Sioux Falls district elementary special education supervisor Brenda Bernard says more schools are adopting the Boys Town model amid increasing behavior problems.

Ten schools in Sioux Falls have adopted the model, and the district expanded it to four more schools this year after increasing trainers who can show teachers and staff how to use teachable moments with students.

School board member Doug Morrison says the problem with the program is judging whether it works and should be used districtwide. He says educators need to come up with a way to track progress.

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