Skowhegan Area High school Improvement Plan Student Discipline Policy Brad Cyr EDU 701 4-1-2011

Successful Initiatives at Skowhegan Area high school Freshman Team Advisor Advisee Technology (Math Grant) After School Program Literacy Read 180

So What is Next? To find out what issues still existed at SAHS the staff completed a survey that asked them to indicate what are the most prevalent issues currently at SAHS. Several topics were preselected, but all staff could write in any response not on the list. Survey is anonymous.

Staff Survey Results:

Staff Survey Results Student conduct and discipline dominated the responses. Student empathy, test prep, and several of the other responses (goal setting, peer support) will be addressed through the advisor/advisee program. It is clear from the survey that student conduct and discipline must be the next item examined at SAHS.

The Problem Student conduct has led to a less than desirable working environment. Teachers spend a greater portion of their classroom time dealing with these issue now more than ever. To make matters worse, administrative discipline is not timely, inconsistent, and ineffective. The culminating effect is a school climate where the students feel like they can do what want without consequences, administrators question teachers, and teacher are left with their hands tied behind their backs when disciplining students.

The Three dimensions of School Discipline Policies

Student Conduct and Understanding of Rules: Concerns Disrespect towards teachers Disrupting Class Swearing and Inappropriate language Wandering Halls Bullying and Teasing Tardy to Class Dress Code (Unawareness) Skipping Teacher Detentions

Classroom Management & Classroom Discipline: Concerns Inconsistent enforcement of rules by the staff Some teachers are uncomfortable enforcing some rules (dress code). Overuse of detentions. Sending too many students to the office. Not sure what situations warrant removal of a student Not modifying student behavior. Not setting good examples for the students.

Administrative & Office Discipline: concerns Administrators are also the athletic directors. Administrators share discipline duties. Inconsistent consequences and follow through. Students not seen in a timely manner. Very little communication with teachers about when students are seen and what the outcome of the situation was. Ascending disciplinary consequences are not always followed or used. Secretaries asked to watch students in the office. Lack of communication between secretaries and administrators. Students do not remain in the office. Question teachers in the presence of students and staff. Administrative detention is not effective and lacks follow through. Suspension: Not enough or too much? Out of school or in school?

What can we do? School Discipline Committee needs to be formed. Committee needs to consist of an administrator, teachers, parents, and students to give every group affected by the policy a voice. Review current policy and the student handbook. Create a new school discipline policy. Revise current rules and the student handbook. Create new rules if necessary. Define situations that need to be handled at the classroom level and those that require a student be removed to the office. Define appropriate and effective consequence for violating school rules. Set positive examples for our students by following and fairly enforcing school rules.

Timeline: April & May 2011

Timeline: June-September 2011

Goals As a school the new discipline plan will: Provide clear rules, procedures, and policies for students and staff. Create a safe, effective learning environment. Change the school climate to a positive and collaborative community.

Together we can make a difference and make it last! “Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.” – Robert collier Together we can make a difference and make it last!