My classroom discipline policy is very simple and easy to follow. I believe that no one is perfect and everyone makes mistakes, that doesn't mean that parents or caregivers should be notified every single time. Your children will make mistakes and that is okay. I am here to correct them and make sure they understand what they did was wrong and find out why they did it through communicating with them first. It is my job as a teacher to continue to help them grow and mature into young, respectful, and caring individuals.
Verbal Warning: Every student at some point is going to do something they should not. When that happens, they will receive a verbal warning. They will also be reminded what they are doing is not okay or breaking the rules, they will be warned it is a verbal warning and they next step is losing something.
Time out: I call this a time out since most kids should know what that is. If they continue to do what they are not supposed to after the verbal warning they will either lose computer time, recess, or free time. This could be anywhere from five minutes to fifteen minutes depending on the severeness of their actions.
Parent Contact: If the student continues to act out after the first two offenses, parents will be notified either by e-mail or phone.
Administrative Referral: If student continues behavior even after the first three consequences, then the student will be referred to the principal.
I do have a rewards program for good behavior as well. Students can earn dollars to spend in what I call "Mrs. Pierce's Prize Store." They earn dollars from anything like behaving kindly, being a good friend, working hard, having a positive attitude, following rules, etc. I also like to have fun little competitions for the hallway like boys vs. girls, who can be the quietest and things like that.