Trends & Insights on Student Behavior

Attendance is the #1 behavior challenge principals say they face in 2025. But it’s not the only one. This report compiles insights from school leaders on the full spectrum of student behavior shifts shaping classrooms today.

Introduction

At UNITED 2025, we listened closely to the growing challenges educators face, from attendance drops to distractions like cell phones and vaping, all impacting student engagement and instructional time. We invited school leaders to share their thoughts on a live “insight wall,” using nothing but three stickers and their honest perspective. Hundreds of educators responded, placing stickers on three key questions about student behavior and engagement. Their feedback revealed powerful trends shaping schools today and in the years ahead.

United 20205 Report

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What’s Inside the Report

  • Top Behavior Challenges
    Data on the most pressing issues like attendance, tardies, cell phone use, and vaping.
  • Student Engagement Pulse
    Live feedback from educators on how connected students feel in their school communities.
  • Effectiveness of Current Tools
    Ratings on how well existing behavior and engagement tools are working in schools.
  • Key Themes and Takeaways
    Summary of trends around connection, consistency, and school culture signals.
  • Actionable Insights for Schools
    Practical steps to simplify tools and boost student engagement and behavior.

View the Results