Discipline Procedures

As school starts, we will go over the classroom expectations and procedures so students understand and practice them the first few days of school. My expectations are:

1.  Treat everyone with respect.

2.  Be honest and have good manners.

3.  Try your hardest and work at your own pace.

4.  Keep hands, feet, and objects to yourself.

5.  Move quickly and quietly during all transition times.

Throughout this year, as a class, we will work on student responsibility. I will also emphasize with my class that I expect them to treat all adults and students with care and respect especially in the classroom. Please discuss these ideas with your child to help them be more successful. These will be our major focus for all students and I expect all of them to improve greatly.

During the school year, I use a creative discipline system called "Big Bucks." This system focuses on students who follow the expectations of the classroom and come to school eager to learn. I will use "money" (Big Bucks) to reward and fine students for their behavior. With this system, my two main discipline goals of consistency and fairness result. Money is motivating and easy for the students to relate to as well as part of the third grade curriculum. By using this system, I improve my teaching by focusing on positive behavior, building character and self-esteem, and increasing student time on task.

My students earn money individually. Throughout the day students earn and lose "money" based on their behavior. For instance, Stanley has all his materials ready for Math class; he would earn at least $5 (Big Bucks) for himself OR Sue was talking to Randy, disrupting a lesson, they would each lose at least $10 (Big Bucks). The monetary figure varies depending on the action of the student, but generally, a fine is greater in order to persuade that action from reoccurring.

There are opportunities to spend money on activity time, computer time, and extra privileges. During the week, I may offer to sell a fun object or special privilege. Besides these spending options, there are two auctions held: one near Christmas, and the other at the end of the school year. As that time approaches, I will ask for donations of items to sell. For the auctions and other spending times, the students are responsible to buy items on their own.

This year our school continues with the use of the Care Center. A student is sent to the Care Center after warnings and consequences in the classroom. It is the place for a student to regroup and settle down before being sent to the office. Please read over the information sent by the school for additional information about this program.

At Curriculum Night, I will go into more details about my expectations, the "Big Bucks" program and the Care Center as I do the same with the class Friday and throughout the first week of school. Thank you in advance for your cooperation and support in your child s education this year!! I rely on your help as parents to encourage and motivate your student to do their best every day at school. I will keep you updated on your child’s behavior (as well as academics). I am always open to individual conferences. I usually arrive at school around 7:15 am and leave around 4:30 pm. Please call me with any questions or concerns at school 570-6120.  THANKS!! J