What is Structured Studies?
Structured Studies is designed to re-focus a student toward the primary mission of the IRCSD campus, which is to educate students and prepare them for their future. Sometimes students exhibit behavior which disrupts the class and this detracts from other students' ability to learn the material and that student must be removed. Being removed from a class and re-assigned to Structured Studies / ISS, allows the offending student(s) to go thru a re-set period to reflect on their behavior and self-correct before more serious actions are necessary.
Students complete a contract which includes reviewing the rules and writing them out and then they will complete a reflection essay describing what happened in their particular situation and what actions they can take to prevent similar outcomes.
Other assignments are given to students based upon their particular behavior issue and are meant to help the student find ways to modify their behavior as to not repeat it. The Structured Studies / ISS Teacher may, when appropriate, teach a behavioral modification class to several students who exhibited similar behaviors. Students will also complete classroom work as time allows.
Who am I?
My Background: I served in the U.S. Army from 1990 to 2015 and retired as a Major in the Military Police Corps. I was a NY State Corrections Officer for nearly 3 years and I also served two years as a Federal Police Officer. My past experiences in law enforcement greatly influence my role as a Structured Studies Teacher. I use the knowledge and techniques gained over the years to counsel students in a positive way and coach them onto a pathway to success. I like helping students find their potential in life.
My education: Graduated from Gouverneur High School in 1990; A.S. degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Jefferson (1997); B.S. degree in Technical Communications from Clarkson University (1999). In 2012, I attended the U.S. Army Command & General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and simultaneously earned my M.S. degree in Administration (Public Administration) conferred in 2013 from Central Michigan University.
My home life: I am married to Rebekah Billings and together we have two sons, Alexander and Joshua, two dogs and two cats. I remain very active in the community as a volunteer with several organizations. I like to spend my time relaxing with my family, traveling, hiking, hunting, and camping.
Other Duties: Currently serve on the IRMS Safety Committee, Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) Team, Warrior-2-Warrior Team, and Veterans Day Committee.
My Contact Info: Please email me with any questions you may have: mathewbillings@ircsd.org