How Teacher Training Programs Help School Districts Boost Student Outcomes

Behavioral disruptions, social-emotional struggles, and academic hurdles make it increasingly difficult for school districts to create environments where all students can succeed. 

46% of kindergarten teachers report that nearly half of their students lack the emotional, self-regulatory, and social skills to function productively in a classroom setting. Additionally, 16-30% of children in Head Start programs struggle with ongoing behavioral problems, such as aggression, which impedes individual learning and disrupts the learning of others. 

And the stakes are high. Children with emotional and behavioral difficulties, particularly those prone to aggression, face an increased risk of underachievement, school dropout, delinquency, violence, and substance abuse. 

School districts must turn to evidence-based programs that provide structured, effective interventions. Incredible Years® (IY) offers a solution: teacher training programs designed to address the complex issues of behavior management, social-emotional learning, and academic development. 

The Role of IY in Enhancing Social-Emotional Learning 

Social-emotional learning (SEL) is a vital component of student development, and IY offers the necessary tools to foster these critical skills. IY's approach is comprehensive, supporting teachers in facilitating the growth of social-emotional competencies students need to thrive academically and personally. 

When students develop strong social-emotional skills, they learn to regulate their emotions, build positive relationships, and handle challenges effectively. SEL is more than a curriculum add-on; it's essential for creating a supportive learning atmosphere. 

IY has proven to be an asset for schools seeking to improve SEL outcomes. Numerous school districts have successfully implemented IY into their SEL initiatives with impressive results. 

Program Success in the US 

A team of researchers at the University of Missouri began implementing and evaluating the Teacher Classroom Management program in 2013.  In a study published in 2020 that included 1,817 students in grades K to 3 and 105 teachers, these researchers found that the TCM program has particular benefits for r children with aggressive behaviors. The positive outcomes included improved math achievement, prosocial behaviors emotional regulation, and reductions in observed aggression.   

Program Success in Ireland 

The National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) in Ireland has been implementing the Incredible Years® Teacher Classroom Management (TCM) program in primary schools for over a decade. Two significant studies in 2021 highlighted the program's effectiveness: 

1. Impact on Teacher Outcomes: A study involving 368 Irish primary school teachers found that the IY TCM training positively impacted teachers' wellbeing and self-efficacy. Teachers reported feeling better equipped to manage challenging student behaviors using positive strategies. 

1. Effectiveness in Professional Development: Another study focused on teachers' experiences with the TCM program as part of their continuing professional development. The research emphasized the importance of tailoring the program to participants' needs, using a collaborative model, and providing sustained support. 

Disseminating the IY TCM Program in Wales 

The Powys Teaching Health Board in Wales has been implementing the IY TCM program since 2002. A recent review of data collected from 2011 to 2016 revealed impressive outcomes: 

• Improved Student Behavior: Teachers reported significant improvements in students' social and emotional wellbeing, as measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Reductions were observed in emotional difficulties, conduct problems, hyperactivity, and peer problems, while pro-social behavior increased. 

• Reduced Teacher Stress: The Teacher Stress Inventory (TSI) showed a significant reduction in occupational stress among participating teachers, particularly in areas related to classroom management. 

• Positive Teacher Feedback: Teachers reported feeling calmer, more confident, and better equipped with strategies to create positive interactions with pupils and manage classroom behavior effectively. 

Recent Research in Portugal 

Researchers in Portugal have recently published exciting outcomes using the TCM program, including significant benefits for children whose teachers have received the TCM program. In a study involving Ninety teachers and 535 children ages 2 to 10 years old, (children showed significant increases in social and emotional skills (e.g., social adjustment, empathy) and significant reductions in problem behavior when assessed by their teachers, and in social-cognitive problem-solving strategies as evaluated by a set of problem-solving tasks.).  This research further demonstrates the IY Teacher Classroom Management Program’s global applicability and effectiveness. This research adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of IY programs in diverse cultural contexts. 

For more information on implementing evidence-based early intervention and teacher training programs, download Incredible Years' best practices guide. 

IY's Evidence-Based Approach to Improving Classroom Behavior 

IY's evidence-based teacher training programs and classroom management strategies help teachers achieve a positive learning atmosphere by offering the necessary tools to promote positive discipline, resulting in better student outcomes. 

Research demonstrates that when classroom behavior improves, students are more engaged, less distracted, and better able to focus on their academic tasks. The effectiveness of IY in achieving positive outcomes is well-documented, with numerous studies highlighting its success in reducing disruptive behaviors. 

IY Teacher Training Program Effectiveness in Treatment of Child Conduct Problems 

A study involving 133 clinic-referred families with children aged 4-8 years diagnosed with Oppositional Defiant Disorder or Conduct Disorder evaluated the IY teacher training program for its impact on classroom behavior. The study examined six different conditions, including combinations of parent training, child training, and teacher training. 

The results were clear: 

• Increased positive discipline skills in teachers 

• Decreased teacher criticism and harsh discipline 

• Improved social competence and school readiness among students 

• Reduced student aggression within the classroom 

The study also found that combining teacher training with parent training yielded even better outcomes, reinforcing the importance of a collaborative approach to behavior management. 

Evaluation of IY Teacher Classroom Management and Dinosaur School 

Another study evaluated the combined effects of the IY Teacher Classroom Management program and the Dinosaur School Social Skills and Problem-Solving Curriculum. It involved 120 classrooms and 153 teachers, with a diverse student population of 1,768 children. 

Teachers leveraging IY strategies reported: 

• Improved overall classroom behavior 

• Reduced negative behaviors in children 

• Increased student problem-solving and school readiness 

• Improved social competence and emotional regulation in students 

Teachers overwhelmingly found the program easy to integrate into their existing curriculum and effective in meeting their social-emotional goals for students. Parent satisfaction was equally high. 

These studies paint a picture of both hope and caution. They tell us that young children, even those with significant behavioral challenges, can make tremendous progress when supported by nurturing teachers and evidence-based programs like IY. However, they also serve as a reminder of the risks of failing to provide the necessary support, particularly for higher-risk children.  

Long-Term Benefits of Implementing IY Teacher Training Programs in School Districts 

Investing in teacher training programs for early intervention can lay the groundwork for a brighter future for all students. 

Reduce Dropout Rates 

Students who develop strong social-emotional skills are better equipped to navigate the challenges of school life, leading to increased engagement and persistence in their education. Over time, this translates into higher graduation rates, as students who feel supported and understood are more likely to stay in school. 

Improve Mental Health 

IY helps students develop the resilience they need to cope with stress and adversity by addressing emotional regulation, social competence, and problem-solving skills early on. This early support can prevent the escalation of mental health challenges that may hinder a student's ability to succeed. The positive impact on mental health also lays a foundation for lifelong well-being. 

Build an Inclusive School Culture 

The program's emphasis on social-emotional learning and positive behavior management creates an environment where all students feel valued and included. This inclusive atmosphere encourages collaboration, empathy, and respect among students, strengthening the school community. 

Experience Long-Term Savings 

As students develop better social-emotional skills and behavioral problems decrease, schools spend less on disciplinary actions, special education services, and interventions for at-risk students. Additionally, the long-term societal benefits—such as reduced spending on drug rehabilitation, mental health services, and criminal justice involvement—further underscore the value of investing in early intervention programs. 

Teacher Training Programs are an Investment in Student Success 

Incredible Years is a leading provider of evidence-based early intervention and teacher training programs that empower school districts to improve student outcomes by fostering social-emotional learning, enhancing classroom behavior, and supporting educators with effective strategies. Over time, these benefits translate into improved academic performance, better mental health, reduced dropout rates, and a more inclusive school culture. 

By implementing IY, district decision-makers can promote teacher success and lasting positive change in students' lives. 

Incredible Years is dedicated to providing evidence-based programs designed to aid early interventions for children to improve their emotional and social competencies, focusing on equipping parents, caregivers, and teachers with necessary strategies and support. Our unique approach is designed to address each child's individual needs and help them thrive. For more information about our programs and how they can help you visit our Programs page.