| Penobscot Community Elementary School |
| Student / Parent School Information Handbook |
| System of Consequences: The System of consequences is intended to help children learn appropriate behaviors. When Consequences take the form of punnishments, the punishment is intended to improve behavior. Staff members maintain respectful relationships throughout the discipline process. The classroom teachers monitor and redirect student behavior within the classrooms. The Teacher(s) will use a system of consequences to change inappropriate behaviors. Severe Clause Penobscot Community Elementary School will have " ZERO TOLLERANCE " for fighting or vulgarity. Both of these behaviors will result in a one-day suspension. Maine State Law does allow for up to a 10 day suspension. Positive Rewards Students will be recognized for appropriate school behaviors or citizenship as well. If students have demonstrated appropriate behaviors, teachers will fill out ballot for weekly drawing of a " Thumbs up Certificate ". Inappropiate Behaviors Possible Consequences Serious Disrespect for Others Defiance of an adult (verbal or physical) Written apology to teachers or students Refusing to complete assigned tasks Removal from Class to Main Office Rudely talking back Remaining after School Harassment, Teasing Community Service Interfering with the learning environment. Writing a list of alternative ways of expressing disagreement Loss of privileges or movement within school Physical Aggression Towards Students or Adults In -school or out-of- school suspension Threatening to hurt or physically hurting someone Referral to Law Enforcement Writing a report of reasons for fighting , hitting, or vulgar language Violations of Major School Safety Regulations: List of positive things about the person threatened or hurt Leaving school property without permission Make posters or presentations to younger students about behavior Endangering physical safety of self and others Research Safety violations Creating a fire or other serious safety hazards Mandatory visits to public safety buildings Restitution Illegal or Anti-Social Behavior Research reasons to avoid drugs Stealing, Substance Abuse, Vandalism Review drug / alcohol materials Repair or restitution for damages Since it is more effective to administer consequences as quickly as possible after an inappropriate behavior occurs, staff members should attempt to discuss the behavior with the student or students immediately. If dealing with the behavior immediately is not possible, the staff member and student(s) should meet to discuss the behavior and appropriate consequences at the next possible time available. If the students needs to remain after school, the parent(s) will be notified so that transportation can be arrainged. Serious infractions of the " Code of Conduct " should be documented on a dicipline report form and filed in the office. Students may be suspended from school for extreme or dangerous situations. The Principal will then notify parent(s) . The child will be released to the parents at times when it may be in the best interest for him / her not to remain in a school setting. The Principal will determine terms for return to school with notification to parents at the time of suspension. The teachers and principal are encouraged to always explore all possible means for helping students to learn appropriate behaviors through the use of individual student contracts, behavior plans, and also to enlist parent support through early communications on evolving problems. While it is intended to give framework for chronic offenders so that all students can have a safe and enjoyable learning environment, this policy is not intended to limit the staff , parents, or school administration from handling discipline situstions with flexibility and creativity. Adopted: Penobscot School Committee, 08/12/02 |
| Disciplinary Guidelines |