Behavioral Expectations & Discipline Procedures

It is our desire to maintain the optimum learning situations (Field Trips, Co-Ops, etc.) for our many eager, well-behaved students. There have been a few children who have caused disruptions by refusing to cooperate, running around, or being rude and disrespectful to adults. We will not allow a few to spoil it for the majority. Therefore, we will outline the various responsibilities of those involved. If these responsibilities and standards are violated there will be correction and consequences.

•  Coordinators have structured our Field Trips, Co-ops, and other activities for effective learning. Parents, please follow the Coordinators' appointed procedures for time schedules, lunch, activity times, class requirements (homework, supplies, fees), child care, and clean up. Coordinators will work with teachers and children, and parents if necessary, to maintain high classroom standards.

•  Teachers are responsible for planning the class content and teaching. The teacher sets standards for expected behavior - please support your child's teacher. If your child is having teacher or classroom difficulty, communicate first with the teacher. If the difficulty can not be resolved, the Coordinator will assist.

•  Children are responsible to listen attentively and follow through on the assigned projects. They should not "bother" others or be disruptive in the classroom or between classes.

•  Parents are responsible for their children at all times. When you commit your child to the care of another person (whether they are car-pooling, baby-sitting, teaching or supervising), you also delegate a measure of your authority . That person then becomes responsible for the child's behavior. There is always someone "in charge." Before an activity, parents should remind children of their responsibility to listen, obey, and to be helpful and courteous. Do not put your child in a potentially difficult situation for your convenience. Discipline problems often arise when children are waiting to be picked up. When conversing with other parents, have your children stay close by so they are not tempted to run around or act-out. "Stick like glue" is a good motto.

There is not a list long enough to cover all the rules kids can break! We have summed our standards up by making our motto the Golden Rule:

"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."

You like others to listen and respect you - listen to and respect others.

You don't like others to interrupt you - so don't interrupt them.

You like others to be kind to you - be kind to them.

Please talk this principle over at home and make applications. God's Word encompasses everything so wonderfully! We have included a "Three Step Plan for Eliminating Improper Behavior" on the next page. Please read it so that you will be prepared to help avoid or correct any discipline problems should they arise.

Three Step Plan for Eliminating Improper Behavior

1. If a child requires correction for disrupting others, we expect an immediate positive change for the better. If another warning is necessary, the teacher will consider this warning #1 and will talk seriously with the child. The parent may be notified.

2. After warning #1, the child's behavior should be in line with the teacher's standards. The parent will be notified that warning #2 has been given. At this point, either mom or dad is invited (expected) to come to the next class and sit with their child to be sure proper behavior is forthcoming. You may continue to come to class for as many weeks as you like until compliance is assured.

3. If a child continues to disrupt the class and needs correction a third time, we will send a letter requesting that the child not return to class for the remainder of that term. No refunds will be given . If the third warning is toward the end of the term, the child will not be able to participate the following term (which may be the next fall).

When the parents feel that the child is ready to cooperate in a group setting they should contact the Coordinator of the group with their intent, so they can sign up for the next term.

We desire to reflect the Life and Light of Christ in our families and support group. This cannot be done when there is disorder, frustration, or disregard for one another. Be assured that we are serious about being consistent with these guidelines.