Cougar Care Room Spotlighted at MTSS Showcase

The Cougar Care Room (CCR), a process that has dramatically improved outcomes at North Rose-Wolcott, was recently highlighted at a virtual conference attended by educators nationwide!

NRW Middle School Principal Crystal Yarnes recently presented at the 2026 Midwest PBIS and I-MTSS School Showcase on the success of the Cougar Care Room (CCR), which was implemented at the middle school in September 2022. This virtual event focused on practical school-based models for other schools to put into place, and Mrs. Yarnes’ presentation reached educators from as far away as Alaska!

Since implementing the CCR at the middle school, office discipline referrals have dropped from 1,865 in the 2021-22 school year to 257 in the 2024-25 school year – and that number is on pace to be even lower in the current year. CCR’s success at the middle school has led to its implementation at the elementary and high schools as well.

CCR is meant to increase accountability and safety, improve school culture and relationships, and reduce bullying and disruptive behaviors. The room is a place for students to cool down, reflect, receive resources and support, and return to class as promptly as possible. A teacher or staff member can send a student to CCR, or a student can request a pass to go themselves to speak with trained CCR aides about what they need. Issues are triaged by CCR staff and are often resolved by reflection and repair, although severe issues are addressed by administration.

We are thrilled that this model is gaining national recognition as a success story for other schools to try!