Schools are getting more serious about cracking down on bullying behavior. It takes more than just rules and threats, though. Effective discipline in schools requires the cooperation of the entire school community.
It takes parents, teachers, principals and other children working together to build a positive school climate and to swiftly and consistently discipline kids.
How do you know if your child’s school has a positive behavior plan? The National PTA recommends the following:
- Become well acquainted with your child's teachers and the discipline in school, and make sure your child understands it--and the consequences for breaking the rules.
- Encourage the school to translate discipline policies into each language spoken by school families.
- Get to know your child’s teachers and help them know your child. Communicate with them often, not just when problems arise.
- Volunteer to assist in the classroom and with school functions.
- Encourage school faculty and parents to regularly evaluate school discipline policies. Do they include research-tested peer mediation, conflict resolution, zero tolerance, and character education?
- Evaluate your school climate. Does it reflect the school’s vision and mission? Does it match community values and expectations? Does it provide a positive model for students?
- Make sure that parents are represented on committees that write or revise discipline policies.
Adapted from “Tips for Parents,” Our Children, November 2000, National PTA Magazine.