Conscious Discipline: Empowering Students and Adults through Emotional Learning

In Richfield Public Schools, a transformative approach to education is taking root: one that equips students and staff alike with essential tools for emotional regulation, self-awareness and connection. The methodology, known as Conscious Discipline, was introduced to the District during the 2017-18 school year. Rooted in scientific research, this trauma-informed program is reshaping how adults and students approach behavior and social-emotional learning.

The Science Behind Conscious Discipline

The program is built around the Conscious Discipline Brain State Model, which identifies three core brain-body-mind states responsible for certain behaviors. By understanding and responding to these brain states, teachers and staff can better support students in developing self-regulation, empathy and problem-solving skills. The brain states are the Executive State, where we are able to make good decisions and problem solve; the Emotional State, where we go when we’re upset; and the Survival State, where we go when we don’t feel safe.

Nancy Stachel, Principal of Sheridan Hills Elementary, emphasizes that Conscious Discipline is an adult-first approach that is not limited to our roles as educators. "Most of it is about reflecting on ourselves," she said. "It starts with the adults. If we aren't in control and can’t self-regulate, we can’t teach students to self-regulate and deal with conflict." She notes that the program encourages staff to recognize their triggers and ways to regain composure, shifting from reacting emotionally to responding thoughtfully. This self-regulation creates a model for students, showing them how to handle their emotions in healthy ways.

Creating a “School Family”

One of the key concepts of Conscious Discipline is the idea of the "School Family," a culture that fosters close connections between students and staff. This culture is built through rituals and routines that create safe spaces for emotional expression. Students are introduced to strategies like "Be a STAR" (Smile, Take a deep breath, And Relax) to help them manage big emotions. The focus on safety and connection makes it easier for students to navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

Principal Stachel has seen firsthand the benefits of this approach. One standout example involved a new student who struggled to adjust to school life. Rather than focusing solely on discipline, staff worked with the student to understand their needs, helping them develop self-awareness and emotional skills. "We all make mistakes, but the key is how we get back to a place where we can make healthy decisions," said Principal Stachel.

Empowering Adults and Students Alike

Unlike other programs, Conscious Discipline centers on the idea that adults need to model the emotional skills they want to teach. The program offers seven core powers that guide adults to approach conflict with composure and intention. These powers include composure, assertiveness, encouragement, choices/free will, empathy, positive intent, and consequences. Conscious Discipline helps staff reflect on their own responses before addressing student behavior. "You can’t teach what you can’t do," explained Principal Stachel, emphasizing that the program empowers teachers to be better colleagues, partners and family members.

For Principal Stachel, Conscious Discipline is more than just another initiative—it’s a philosophy that has transformed how Sheridan Hills approaches education. “It’s about giving ourselves space to be human,” she shared. "The better I get at it, the more mindful and peaceful I become. It just feels right for our students and staff."

As the program continues to evolve, it has become an integral part of behavior plans, helping students develop skills like empathy, conflict resolution and self-regulation. At its core, Conscious Discipline is about choice—the choice to approach each day with mindfulness and the belief that we’re all in this together.

At RPS, that choice is helping to create a thriving community where everyone is seen, heard and supported.

• Conscious Discipline is practiced in all of our schools across the district. 
• Learn more about Conscious Discipline.
• Watch Principal Stachel’s school board presentation on Conscious Discipline at her school.