Kaden's Journey of Belonging

By prioritizing relationships, mental health supports and skill development, Salem-Keizer Public Schools is helping students like Kaden build the confidence and tools they need to succeed.

Before arriving at Crossler Middle School, Kaden attended Salem-Keizer Public Schools Behavioral Health Center (BHC), a specialized program designed to support students with acute behavioral health needs.

"When Kaden first came to us, he was hurting staff and punching holes in walls," recalls Aaron Johnson, principal at the Behavioral Health Center. "But kids like Kaden are just craving love, understanding and patience. They need someone who believes in them."

Today, Kaden is thriving at his neighborhood school, a journey that reflects Salem-Keizer Public Schools' commitment to the Climbing Together strategic plan and its focus on strengthening student agency and wellness.

Meeting Students Where They Are

Returning from a highly structured program to a comprehensive school is a carefully planned process. "We know it's time to transition a student back when we have the data to say so," Johnson explained.

At the Behavioral Health Center, staff tracked Kaden's progress in 15-minute intervals, monitoring his emotional regulation and overall stability. When the data showed he was ready, staff from both the BHC and Crossler worked together to plan for his return.

"He has surprised me in all of the best ways," Williams said. "His transition pushed me to see the student over the behavior."

Partnering for Student Success

School staff credit much of Kaden's success to the strong partnership between his family and school teams. Johnson noted that Kaden's mother attended every meeting and consistently advocated for her son. "Without her involvement, he wouldn't be where he is today," Johnson said.

"They are the experts on their child," Williams said. "They show up for him, and they show up for us. We became a beautiful team, and that partnership is why Kaden is thriving."
 

Strengthening Student Agency

At Crossler, Kaden worked closely with Behavioral Specialist Aaron Lawson to build emotional regulation skills. Lawson believes these skills can be taught and strengthened over time.

"The biggest thing is emotional regulation," Lawson said. "If a student isn't able to stay calm when things get tough, it's a hindrance to learning. Kaden's growth is remarkable. He's showing a side of himself we knew was there, but now it's there all the time."

"I feel like I'm most proud because I'm showing love instead of aggressiveness," Kaden said. "I proved to other people that I can be calm." His ability to recognize his emotions, ask for support and make positive choices demonstrates the power of student agency in action.

Building Connection and Belonging

Today, Kaden is fully engaged in school life at Crossler. He is a member of the chess club, competes on the wrestling team and participates in culinary arts, where he enjoys making pizza bagels.

For Principal Williams, Kaden's involvement in school activities reflects something even bigger: a sense of belonging.
"He brings this sense of hope," Williams said. "He's a reminder that we are getting it right for all kids, not just the ones who show up ready for school, but all kids, just as they are."

When students feel connected to their school community, they are more likely to attend, engage and succeed.
When asked what advice he would give to other students facing similar struggles, Kaden offered a message rooted in resilience.

"Work for it," he said. "You will be able to make a lot of good skills and friends. And it's okay if you're not perfect. You're perfect the way you are."

Kaden's story is a reminder that when schools invest in relationships, partner with families and empower students with the skills they need to thrive, students can discover new possibilities for themselves and their future.