The Positive Action Program

https://www.positiveaction.net/

Initiative Description: The Positive Action program features scripted lessons that are easy to prepare and teach and is organized into six units by grade level and covers topics including self-esteem, honesty, interpersonal relationships, among others. Lessons are designed for 15 minutes a day, but can be implemented as necessary. 18 schools agreed to participate and the 7 best-matched pair schools were selected for participation and were followed for 6 years and 8 waves. Surveys were completed by parents and teachers when students were in grade 3.

Study Results: There was a significant positive impact of Positive Action on absenteeism and marginally significant impact on math performance. Academic motivation was improved and there was a reduction in disaffection with learning.

Reference: Bavarian et al. (2013). Using Social-Emotional and CharacterDevelopment to Improve AcademicOutcomes: A Matched-Pair,Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trialin Low-Income, Urban Schools. Journal of School Health, 83 (11) 771-779. https://doi.org/10.1111/josh.12093

Level of Evidence: Excellent