Dr. Edward Wiggins, principal of Warren Central Intermediate, likes to start his students off each day with a few words of wisdom.

Over the school’s intercom each morning, Wiggins reads from “Project Wisdom,” a character-based program that’s part of his efforts to nudge students toward good behavior by positive examples and encouragement.

WCI is one of the Vicksburg Warren School District’s success stories for improvement in student behavior. Statistics furnished by the district show a more than 70 percent reduction in suspensions at the school over the last four years, from 203 to 57.

“We looked at the data and developed a schoolwide plan of action,” Wiggins said. “Then we put into place a system of rewards and incentives for children with appropriate behavior.”