Show-Me State Times

Researchers at the University of Missouri's College of Education and Human Development have secured a substantial grant to assist middle school teachers in managing classroom disruptions. The $3,999,994 grant from the U.S. Department of Education will enable Mizzou researchers to offer free online training and coaching on classroom management to 110 middle school teachers in rural Missouri.

The initiative will utilize CHAMPS, a commercial training program by Safe and Civil Schools that has been implemented in schools nationwide for three decades. Keith Herman, the primary investigator of the grant and a Curators' Distinguished Professor at Mizzou, emphasized the project's aim: "This project is meant to support teachers through training and ongoing coaching so they can develop and/or improve their skills in this area."

Herman explained that the training focuses on preventing disruptive behaviors before they occur, helping students return to learning quickly. Teachers will also learn techniques for de-escalating challenging situations. "We will help teachers set up their classrooms for success by building off what they already do well," he stated.

The project builds upon previous work using the same curriculum, which showed improved teacher-student interactions leading to better focus and grades. This new phase expands access through online training, allowing more educators to benefit regardless of location.

Throughout this period, researchers will evaluate the effectiveness of delivering the program online. Herman highlighted Mizzou's commitment: "At Mizzou, we’re focused on improving the lives of both children and adults...if we can help teachers have more structured, predictable and positive interactions with their students...then the students should view their teachers more favorably."