where students are supervised by aides and other personnel who do not know them well. In addition, Broadoaks does not use substitute teachers. Experienced Broadoaks teachers staff classrooms at all times. Broadoaks recognizes the important possible negative consequences to both the target of bullying and to the perpetrator. Therefore, teachers intervene in even minor infractions that might escalate into bullying, with a view toward helping both the perpetrator(s) and the target(s). Bullying can result in suspension or expulsion from school. Zero Tolerance: Broadoaks has a zero tolerance policy for (1) weapons, (2) dangerous items that can readily be used as weapons (such as knives, matches, guns), (3) items that look like weapons or dangerous items (such as toy guns), (4) prescription and non-prescription medications or drugs not handled in accordance with school policies found elsewhere in this handbook, and (5) violence, aggression, or harassment toward a teacher or school administrator. These are cause for immediate suspension, expulsion, or termination of services at the school’s sole discretion. Suspension and Expulsion: Children may be suspended for a period of time determined by the school or expelled from school for inappropriate, dangerous, or repeatedly disruptive behavior. Suspension and expulsion are extremely rare at Broadoaks. Termination of Services: Our policy is that we will serve only those children and families who (1) benefit from enrollment here; (2) follow the school’s policies, expectations, and contractual agreements, including the Code of Conduct for Students, the Code of Conduct for Parents, and timely payment of all tuition and fees; (3) behave in ways that are consistent with the school’s rules to the extent that can be reasonably expected for their age and stage of development (children); and (4) do not pose a danger to themselves or others or a continuing disruption to the school environment. Discipline and Classroom Management by Classroom: In 2009, members of the Broadoaks faculty developed school guidelines for discipline and classroom management. These guidelines included some flexibility for teachers to use from a variety of techniques and approaches, all of which generally fit within the school’s respect-based and strength-based philosophy and approach. For instance, some teachers may give “table points” for shared efforts to keep the classroom neat and tidy, while other teachers may deduct points for repeated violations of expected standards of behavior. Copies of the Discipline and Classroom Management Guidelines are available in the school office. Teachers discuss their expectations at Parent Orientation each fall. Some teachers may also choose to send home a Behavior Note in incidences where a child’s behavior is (a) outside of their expectations for appropriate school behavior and/or (b) not in concert with rules, guidelines, or policies stated above. An example of the Behavior Note is provided below:
BEHAVIOR INFORMATION FOR PARENTS This note is to (1) inform you of our concern about the behavior/incident described below and (2) request that you provide guidance at home so your child can consistently be a productive and contributing member of the school community. Single incidents rarely result in a behavior note to parents. Therefore, unless otherwise noted, parents should view this note as an indication that the behavior described below has been of ongoing and/or increasing concern. Please contact the teacher if you have any questions.
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Child was physically aggressive toward peer(s). Child was verbally aggressive or unkind toward peer(s). 32