Student Expectations

Golden Rule School

Little Harbour is proud to call itself a Golden Rule School- we treat others the way we wish to be treated. This is a philosophy we try to embody and promote at all times through developing a community that fosters mutual respect, encourages problem solving and conflict resolution, and nurtures the idea of common courtesy and civil behavior towards one another in all situations. 

It is expected that all members of the community will:     

• Be Kind

• Be Safe

• Be Respectful

• Be Responsible

Having a few simple, positively stated rules facilitates the teaching of behavioral expectations across our school setting. By focusing on being a Golden Rule School, it is easier for students to remember what is expected of them. It is also important for staff because instruction focusing on a few simple rules will improve teaching and consistency across staff through the use of a common language.

Positively stated rules are important because research has shown that recognizing students for following the rules is even more important than catching them breaking the rules. By stating rules positively, the hope is that staff will be more likely to use the rules to catch students engaging in the appropriate behavior.

As an LHS faculty, we will strive to use natural consequences and dialogue to help students change any inappropriate behaviors at school.  As with all situations, it is impossible to have a “one size fits all” policy.  Consultation with the principal,  and/or guidance counselor, may be part of the process in order to ensure an appropriate and fitting plan of action for behaviors that are repeated and become problematic in nature. Our follow-up practices will include making amends or "making it right", restoring order to the environment, and accepting responsibility. 

Some behaviors may require more than one type of intervention and might require a more serious and direct consequence immediately based on the infraction.  Repeated behaviors might need a ‘behavior plan’ put in place by the classroom teacher.  As well, students with individual behavior or education plans may have alternative consequences that are more fitting to their particular goals and needs.