Highlands School

Establishing good classroom discipline is essential to each child's success, confidence and well-being. Every child feels that the classroom environment is safe and secure; free from all threats of physical or emotional harm. In addition, it is important that each child learns to develop self-discipline and good habits, to resolve conflicts peacefully, and to think independently. For these reasons, the discipline plan I have chosen has several components.

First, children will learn the purpose of classroom rules and develop the idea that our classroom is a community with the common purpose of learning, growing up and becoming friends. Through class discussion and rulemaking, the children and I will discuss the list of classroom rules that protect each student's right to safety and respect, as well as, outlining the responsibilities that each child has in maintaining class order. The classroom rules are posted within our classroom.

The second facet of the discipline plan includes the logical consequences that will occur when class rules are broken. Examples of logical consequences include time-out away from a classroom activity for class disruption or bothering other children, spending recess time completing work, or written and/or verbal apologies for behavior, name-calling or ridicule towards other children. The idea is for the consequence to be related to consequences and act as a solution for the problem. If classroom rules are severely or persistently broken, parents will be contacted by phone or email.

Finally, discipline includes praise. Praising students when they have followed the rules and have contributed positively to the classroom environment is also a discipline "tactic." Students need recognition not only for positive reinforcement but for building self-esteem and self-worth. All students will receive praise when it is appropriate; good behaviour is always worth encouraging and taking notice of.