Student Discipline

Discipline isn't always easy, but it is necessary. There are positive systems already in place to help support you with discipline at school.

• School-wide systems such as PBIS (Positive Behavior Instructional Support) and individual student or classroom rewards/recognition
• Classroom systems--any discipline system that the teacher has set up within the classroom to manage student behavior
• Individual Education Plans (IEP's) or Behavior Support Plans (BSP's)

Here are some important things to consider when dealing with student behavior:

• If you are respectful, fair, and consistent, students will be more willing to obey your requests and comply.
• If you focus on recognizing the positives, most students work toward that recognition rather than gaining attention for negative behavior.
• Demeaning comments, harsh words, and rude tone are noticed not only by the students, but by other staff members, parents, administrators, etc. It is ineffective, doesn't help schools meet the mission (stated above) and at the same time makes you look bad.
• Do not engage in a power struggle.
• Consider getting on the student's level when speaking with them so they can look at you in the eye and not feel talked down to or overpowered. Try sitting in a chair across from them or squatting down.
• If a child is physically out of control, you do have the responsibility to provide for other student's safety. Do what you need to to get other student's away from any threat.
• If a child is legitimately hurting themselves or others, restraining a student may occur as a last resort. Preferably, employees trained in restraint procedures may physically restrain a child if needed. (BOARD POLICY ON RESTRAINT)
• REPORT ALL THREATS OF VIOLENCE! Generally this means speaking to PBIS staff, the secretary or the principal. However, if it demands urgency, call 911.