Capitola

Researchers are evaluating the Inclusive Skill-building Learning Approach (ISLA), a school-wide program aimed at reducing exclusionary discipline and substance misuse among middle school students. The study focuses on improving teacher practices, student engagement, school climate, and preventing opioid and other substance misuse through a randomized controlled trial in 60 middle schools across six states. This research targets social determinants of health such as education access, quality, and community context to promote equitable support and reduce punitive disciplinary actions. The study involves implementing ISLA as a behavioral intervention that provides universal prevention using positive classroom strategies for all students and additional support for those in need. All educators and students in the selected schools will participate in ISLA activities if assigned to the treatment group. The study will track the intervention's effects over two years, from the end of 6th grade through the end of 8th grade, with detailed evaluations at baseline, one year, and two years. Participants will be assessed through annual surveys and data collection on discipline referrals, suspensions, student engagement, teaching practices, school climate, student-teacher relationships, and substance misuse rates. A sub-cohort of randomly selected 6th grade students will provide additional data. The study also examines implementation factors like acceptability and fidelity of ISLA. Overall, the research aims to measure how ISLA affects school exclusion, substance misuse, and related social factors over time.