The FES Way

Restorative Practices

We use the Restorative Practices program to build a positive community and reduce conflict in our school. Developed by the International Institute of Restorative Practices it focuses on strengthening relationships and problem-solving. Restorative practices help us create a respectful environment and include both ways to build connections and repair them when harm occurs.

Peer Mediators

Our trained peer mediators, 4th and 5th graders, are leaders at Frederick Elementary who help foster positive friendships, resolve conflicts, and support Restorative Practices. These practices build a respectful community, reduce conflict, and teach problem-solving skills.

Community Meetings

One of the main ways we build community at Frederick Elementary is through our weekly community meetings. Every Friday, students and staff meet for 30 minutes to celebrate achievements, focus on our Affirmations and Habits of Mind, talk about current events, or discuss ways to improve the learning environment. These meetings are usually led by a teacher, but sometimes students lead, too. Parents who want to attend should contact their child’s teacher.

Morning Circle

Morning Circle at Frederick Elementary is a time for students to connect with their classmates and teacher. The goals are to:

Build a respectful and positive community
Promote the school’s 3 Pillar Values, 5 Affirmations, and Habits of Mind
Encourage students to talk about important issues
Create a safe space for students to grow as individuals

CHAMPS

CHAMPS is a system used at Frederick Elementary to keep students focused, responsible, and engaged in class tasks. Each letter stands for a key part of classroom behavior:

Conversation: Can students talk? About what? With whom? For how long?
Help: How can students ask for help? What should they do while waiting for help?
Activity: What is the goal of the activity? What should students be doing?
Movement: Can students leave their seats? Do they need permission?
Participation: What shows students are participating or not?
Success: When students follow CHAMPS, they succeed!