Kindness-first strategy helps Atlanta middle school reduce discipline referrals by half

Behavioral incidents at Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School have fallen dramatically after the school shifted its focus from discipline to building stronger relationships with students.

Principal Kimberly Sewell said discipline referrals have dropped by approximately 50% since the approach was introduced two years ago. The school has also reported improved attendance and fewer physical confrontations, with more students choosing to resolve disagreements through conversation.

The change began with a redesign of classroom routines. Instead of immediately starting instruction, teachers spend the opening moments of every class helping students connect with one another. The conversations are intentionally simple, covering topics such as favorite foods or things that make students happy, and are meant to create a welcoming atmosphere before lessons begin.

School leaders also encourage staff to establish positive interactions with students before addressing behavioral issues, reinforcing a culture centered on respect and trust throughout the day.

The results have drawn national attention. Teach Kindness selected the school as one of 32 campuses nationwide to receive its Kindness Designation for the 2025–26 school year. The recognition honors schools that intentionally cultivate supportive relationships and a positive school climate.

The school serves nearly 900 students as part of Atlanta Public Schools, where educators say strengthening connections has become just as important as delivering daily instruction.