By Jessica Pontoo, Chief of Staff & Strategy
At Northaven Elementary, the principal, Mr. Padgett, firmly believes that schools are only as strong as the partnerships they cultivate. One of the most impactful partnerships at Northaven is with Communities In Schools of Memphis (CISM), an organization committed to breaking down barriers so that students can thrive academically and socially. During a recent visit, Mr. Padgett shared how the work of CISM and the support from Student Support Specialist Wade Bonner is creating meaningful change in the school community, and what additional factors are contributing to the school’s success.
Impact of CISM at Northaven
The data speaks volumes. Northaven’s chronic absenteeism rate has dropped dramatically this year to 31%, a more than 15% decrease from last year. This improvement is a testament to the intentional work of CISM and the strategies in place to combat absenteeism and truancy.
Mr. Padgett’s relationship with Student Support Specialist Wade Bonner and the CISM team has been crucial to the school’s positive outcomes. “I am a weaker school when you are not here,” Mr. Padgett admitted, highlighting how much the resources and consistent presence of CISM have strengthened the school community. CISM’s approach focuses on building strong, trusting relationships with students, which Mr. Padgett believes is the foundation for any school’s success. “It starts with relationships,” he emphasized, a belief that aligns with CISM’s mission to create supportive environments where students feel valued.
Academic Gains and Behavioral Successes
Academically, Northaven students are making impressive strides. Mr. Padgett proudly shared that 3rd-5th-grade students demonstrated an average of two years of growth last year, a remarkable achievement for the school. Additionally, students have shown academic excellence as they transition into higher grades, with many Northaven alumni excelling at Woodstock Middle School.
Behaviorally, Northaven has implemented innovative systems to encourage positive actions and regular attendance. The Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) system uses punch cards for students in grades 3rd-5th-grade to track academic readiness and homework completion. Students who complete the week without having all their punch card slots filled participate in weekly celebrations. Furthermore, “Stinger Bucks” are distributed to students for desirable behaviors, including attending school regularly. Students use these bucks to shop at the Stinger Store every 20 days, which aligns with the district’s “Come to Win” initiative, an attendance monitoring system which recognizes students with excellent attendance.
Comprehensive Support for Students and Families
The school’s commitment to supporting students goes beyond academics. Northaven’s partnership with the YMCA allows for before and after-school care, providing a safe space for students outside of regular school hours. The school also addresses essential needs by offering a washer and dryer on campus, ensuring students have clean clothes, providing access to meals through a partnership with Mid-South Food Bank, and maintaining a parent pantry stocked with food and other essentials. These efforts reflect the school’s dedication to creating a holistic support system for its families.
In addition to the practical resources, Northaven has seen success in family engagement through events like the recent Fall Festival. Mr. Padgett noted that this event was a great success, bringing together the community and fostering stronger relationships between parents and the school.
Looking Ahead
Northaven’s focus on improving its students’ academic outcomes remains a top priority. Mr. Padgett’s philosophy of empowering his staff with autonomy and trust has created a positive, collaborative school culture where teachers feel supported in their work and the results are evident as you walk through the halls and peek into classroom windows.
As Northaven continues to overcome challenges and barriers, the partnership with CISM and other community organizations will be essential in driving success. The improvements in attendance, academics, and family engagement are proof that when schools invest in building strong relationships and providing comprehensive support, the entire community thrives.
Mr. Padgett and his team at Northaven Elementary are a shining example of the impact that can be made when everyone works together to make where they are better. The future is bright for Northaven’s students, and with continued support, they will continue to rise.
