South Wellington Discipline Policy

Discipline Policy 

A school discipline policy is only as effective as the individuals who stand behind it.  All discipline should be considered in terms of providing a living and learning atmosphere which fosters self-discipline.  Self-discipline demands that children be given responsibility and opportunities to become independent.  However, behavior which infringes on the rights, property or safety of others will not be tolerated.  We expect politeness, respect and courtesy from all children.  It is expected that: 

1.             Students are respectful and courteous to everyone.

2.             Students, in their movement inside and outside the building, respect the safety of others.

3.             Students respect the rights and property of others.  

Consistency is the element that makes discipline work. 

 Pupils must see that rules are operative at home, in society and in school life.  He/she must learn that he/she must obey the rules or suffer the consequences no matter what others around him/her are doing.

 Results of Misbehavior - Three Step System

 Step 1

 Discussion between student and staff member.  When students choose not to meet behavioral expectations, there will be natural, logical and consistent consequences.  Minor indiscretions are handled by staff.  Frequently the consequences will be in the form of a time-out.  It may also involve completion of a "Think" Sheet where students can reflect upon their actions and consider better choices for next time.  Parents may be informed.

 Step 2 

Conduct reports are issued for major offenses (e.g. rough play, bullying, fighting, physical abuse of others, throwing objects, defiance of authority, disrespect/abusive language) and continual defiance of school rules.  Students are referred to the Principal.  In most cases parents are informed.

 Step 3 

Parents are contacted immediately for serious incidents of misbehavior or if minor incidents persist.  Depending upon the severity or frequency of the misbehavior, students are given in-school or home suspensions for:

 1.             persistent disobedience and lack of application to work.

2.             persistent inappropriate behavior which disturbs, interrupts or disquiets the usual, orderly operation of the school.

3.             inappropriate behavior judged to have a harmful effect on the safety of other pupils.

4.             persistent tardiness.

5.             for the following, students can expect to be suspended immediately, from between one to five days:  fighting, overt rudeness, alcohol and/or drug use, stealing, vandalism and any action that deliberately endangers the health and safety of others.

 In addition to applying natural and logical consequences for misbehavior, our discipline procedures include such methods as developing behavior contracts and counseling for pupils.

 Serious Offenses and Substance Abuse

 - School District 68 Policy No. 3201 and 3205

 Students committing such actions as the use of or possession of drugs or alcohol, setting off false fire alarms, seriously assaulting other students or other persons, while under the jurisdiction of the school, shall be suspended by the school principal for a period of time in accordance with the above district policies, and the parents and guardians immediately notified in writing of the circumstances.  No student so suspended shall be re-admitted until an interview is held with the Superintendent of Schools or her designate.  It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to seek such an interview.  In extenuating circumstances, the principal may recommend to the Superintendent a suspension of less than five days. 

A "District Discipline Committee" where serious discipline offenses are referred is also in place.

Rules/General

 Whenever a group of people come together there is a need for rules to maintain a sense of order.