Discipline Policy & Code of Conduct

St. Bernadette School is committed to creating a safe, caring, respectful learning environment for all members of the school community. As disciples of Jesus, we understand that personal discipline is a Code of Christian Behavior that calls each of us to personal responsibility and respect for ourselves and others. Saint Bernadette School staff will employ techniques that enable students to problem solve while keeping their dignity and self-worth intact. 

CODE OF CONDUCT
Students at St. Bernadette School are expected to
·         treat everyone in a Christian manner, showing respect and courtesy in their speech
          and actions.
·         accept responsibility for their own actions.
·         respect the opinions and property of others and to care for the school’s materials.
·         conform to the school’s regulations for conduct and for dress.
·         exercise self-control on all occasions.
·         observe the rules for safety and quiet in the halls, on the stairs, during safety drills,
          etc.
·         recall that their conduct reflects the education received from their home and their
          school. This includes their conduct at extra-curricular activities.
·         learn and to conduct themselves so as to allow others to learn while in school.
 
We believe that discipline is fundamental to life. Discipline is a necessary reflection of the philosophy of a Catholic school which attempts to develop a fully committed Christian – a Christian committed to the observance of just rules and regulations, which will assist the individual in responding to his/her responsibilities and obligations to himself/herself and others.
 
Correct training in discipline means that a child learns to accept rules and regulations presented by lawful authority. Students are expected to act in such fashion that their behavior will reflect favorably on themselves and the school. They are expected to show consideration and respect for their fellow students and teachers, thus creating a harmonious atmosphere within the school. All students must recognize their individual responsibilities and obligations and discharge them in accordance with school regulations. Children who fail to comply with school policies and regulations must accept the consequences.

The individual classroom teacher will customarily handle disciplinary procedures for PRE-K through Grade 8. Policies are developmentally appropriate for each grade level. Policies, expectations, and consequences of inappropriate behaviors (words and actions) are explained thoroughly in each new year to both students and families. Behavioral charts and strategies are displayed in every classroom where students collaboratively plan for personal growth and academic success with their teachers. The Principal, who promotes and encourages both consistency and ongoing parent communication in the growth of a healthy school environment, reinforces individual policies that are within the framework of this handbook. The Principal is available to all faculty, staff, students, and families on a consultative basis as needed in given circumstances, and acts as an additional resource for the strategies necessary to plan for individual student growth and learning.

Please note: The school reserves the right to search anything brought on school premises. 
Archdiocesan Discipline Policy: Section 319

The school is the co-tenant of all storage areas and desks and reserves the right to search them at any time without notice.  Defacing desks, chairs, books or cubes is strictly forbidden.  Students will be financially liable for any cleaning and/or replacement. Administration also reserves the right to examine all items brought on to the school grounds including backpacks, phones and other items

Occasionally parent(s)/guardian(s) disgruntled with the school will direct that the student not be spoken to by the administrator or any other school official regarding conduct unless the parent(s)/guardians are present or given prior notice. The school should advise the parents that the school cannot teach the student under such circumstances and, therefore, the student should be removed if the parent(s)/guardians insist on such conditions. 

St. Bernadette School views educating students as a partnership that relies on support from home and school. It is our hope that together we are able to redirect misbehavior and move forward.


WEDNESDAY CARD (NEW for students in Grades 5 through 8)
The Wednesday Card is a means of providing weekly feedback to parents on your child's behaviors as well as their acceptance of student responsibilities in school.  Each card serves for one trimester.  We rely on your support as we assist your child with social growth and development.  Please be sure to sign the card EVERY WEDNESDAY NIGHT.  Your signature (no initials please) verifies that you have read the card and are aware of commendations and infractions.  
It may be that there are no comments.  Please take that as a sign that all is well. 
     Commendations
       *1. Exhibiting leadership qualities
       *2. Active participation
       *3. Respectful
       *4. Helpful to Faculty/Administration
       *5. On task
       *6. Supports classmates

The consequences for infractions and misdemeanors are as follows:
       *Codes for conduct: Three (3) policy infractions result in a detention.  Details will be posted in Option C.
               * B: Behavior needs improvement
               * D: Disrespect
               * L: Inappropriate language
               * T: Technology infraction

        *Academics/misdemeanors: Five(5) infractions result in a detention.
              * I:    Incomplete homework
              * N:  Not prepared for class
              * T:   Not on task
              * H:  No Homework
              * U:  Uniform Infraction

Because of unavailable proof of behavior, a lost Wednesday Card will result in an automatic detention. and a new card.  In the event a child is unable to correct his/her behavior and accumulates multiple detentions in a trimester he/she will be referred to the principal for a parent/student/principal/teacher conference.

Detention will be held on Tuesday mornings from 7:30 a.m.-8:00 a.m. and
on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m. If a student is required to serve a detention parents will be given at least 48 hours notice in order for transportation to be arranged.  Parents will be notified via e-mail by the homeroom teacher. It is understood that for many parents detention may cause a dilemma in providing transportation to and from school. However, 
we believe that this consequence will  protect an orderly learning environment and promote the social and emotional growth of our students. It is our hope that this clear, consistent communication will encourage students to adjust any inappropriate behaviors before negative consequences occur. I am most grateful to our faculty for monitoring students in detention.  

DETENTION
Detention will be held on Tuesday mornings from 7:30 a.m.- 8:00 a.m. and
on Wednesday afternoons from 3:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.  If a student is required to serve a detention parents will be given at least 48 hours notice in order for transportation to be arranged.  Parents will be notified via e-mail by the homeroom teacher. Parent must sign and return detention form prior to the day of detention.  Included on the form is the how the child will be going home (Wednesday detention). 

DISCIPLINARY PROBATION
A student who has been placed on disciplinary probation will be expected to show serious effort to improve his/her behavior. During this time students will not be permitted to participate in special school activities, e.g., class trips, etc.
 
SUSPENSIONS
Just, appropriate disciplinary policies are essential educational processes, which include procedures, which are more remedial than punitive, yet include the necessary provisions that protect the common good of the school community.

Suspension may lead to dismissal. The Principal and Pastor will inform the parents/guardians of the seriousness of suspension and seek their immediate cooperation in a corrective program designed to resolve the student’s problem, if possible.

A student may be suspended immediately for any of the infractions listed as Unacceptable Conduct:

• Disrespectful behavior of any kind toward or about any staff, student, volunteer or parent
• Insubordination
• Serious physical fighting
• Bomb scares or triggering other false alarms
• Cheating or plagiarism
• Use or possession of drugs or alcohol
• Vaping
• Smoking
• Stealing
• Intimidation, harassment or threats of any kind
• Possession of any weapon
• Obscene language or gesture
• Inappropriate use of the internet
• Bullying (See section on Bully Behavior)
• Destruction of property
• Any behavior considered seriously unacceptable by the school

 
In addition to suspension, a student is placed on disciplinary probation for one trimester.
If a student is suspended more than once, he/she may be asked to leave the school. In extreme cases, immediate expulsion may occur with the approval of the pastor.

PROCEDURES FOR STUDENT SUSPENSIONS

1. These procedures apply to infractions of a serious nature, as determined by the School Administration.
2. Parents/Guardians of the student will be informed in writing of the suspension as soon as possible.
3. Suspensions will be implemented In School and/or Out of School, at the discretion of the Principal in consultation with the Pastor.
4. Following suspension, the appropriate school official will interview parents or guardians. Students removed from the school community will not be readmitted before a parent interview has been conducted and all other conditions for readmittance have been satisfied.
5. The student must agree to assume responsibility for future behavior.
6. When appropriate, a student will be referred to a counselor.
7. Signed agreement of parents and a written report of the suspension will be filed in the student’s record.

 PROCEDURES FOR DISMISSAL OF A STUDENT

1. After three (3) formal suspensions, a student may be dismissed.
2. Students who are dismissed may apply for readmission after one full year. The School will determine whether re-admittance is appropriate.
3. In certain instances the infraction may warrant immediate dismissal. The School reserves the right to dismiss any student at any time where the School considers the conduct of the student or parent/guardian to be inconsistent with School policy, the good of the School community or Catholic teachings.
4. Parents/Guardians of the student will be informed in writing of the dismissal as soon as possible.

Responsible, Respectful, Good Citizen Pledge

WHAT IS BULLYING  
According to stopbullying.gov, "bullying is unwanted, aggressive behavior among school aged children that involves a real or perceived power imbalance." In order to be considered bullying, the behavior must be aggressive and repeated and include:

• Verbal or written: insults, taunts or gossip
• Emotional or Relational:  acts of intimidation, withdrawing, rumors, or rejecting in order to assert control
• Physical: pushing, shoving tripping or any physical harm
• Sexual: verbal comments or unwanted touching
• Cyber: the use of technology to intimidate, taunt or exclude
   

St. Bernadette School is committed to creating a safe, caring, respectful learning environment for all members of the school community. Bullying in school is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. For the purpose of clarity, “school” includes school buildings, school grounds, and school-sponsored social events, trips, sporting events, buses, and bus stops. Bullying also includes cyber-bullying through social media and/or use of the internet, and this will also not be tolerated. Reported incidents of bullying will be investigated promptly and thoroughly by school administration.
 
Report/Investigative Procedure: All members of the SBS Community have the right to protection against bullying and the right to make a report. Any student or parent may initiate a report by making the school aware of continued incidents. Teachers, staff, and the school administrator are responsible for investigating the report, determining if it is legitimate in accordance with the above definition, and taking appropriate corrective action.
 
Intervention/Consequences: Reports of bullying are taken seriously and shall be dealt with quickly and effectively. If a student has engaged in bullying, the consequences shall depend on both the results of the investigation and the severity of the incident. Consequences may include but are not limited to mediation, a parent conference, mandated counseling, suspension, expulsion, or referral to local law enforcement agency.

After principal and teacher led discussions, students and parents will sign a Responsible, Respectful, Good Citizen Pledge.  



Because I am a responsible, respectful, faith-filled student I will not bully or allow it to take place without reporting it to an adult.  Bullying has been explained to me; I understand what bullying is and the form it takes.
 
I, __________________________________________________________________
will not bully and will be a responsible reporter if I witness it. [Student Signature]
 
 
We/I,________________________________, ________________________________ have read this contract with our/my child. [Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Signature(s)]
 
 
I have read and discussed both sides of this contract. I pledge to be a Responsible, Respectful, Faith-Filled student each day.  
 
Student Signature: ___________________________________________ Grade. _________
 
 
Classroom teachers and principal will discuss the Responsible, Respectful, Good Citizen Pledge and ways to report bullying at an age appropriate level.
 
I know that Jesus is present in everyone; therefore, all my actions will show my respect for all..
 
I pledge to be a faith-filled student in all I do. In order to become more Christ like I will make a conscious effort to see goodness and show it in my everyday decisions.
 
Live life with Faithfulness and Compassion:
I pledge to:

• love others as Jesus did:
• be kind and charitable, putting other’s first without expecting anything in return.
• be an active participant in Mass.
• Include classmates and be open hearted
• Show consideration and share
• Greet others kindly

Live lifeshowing Respect 
I pledge to:

• Cooperate with others
• Accept other’s differences; be welcoming
• Use nice tones when speaking
• Take care of my things and school property
• Show good manners, use please and thank you
• Show appreciation
• Trust others, be trustworthy and honest
• Honor the opinions and feelings of my classmates

Live life by being  Responsible
I pledge to:

• Do my own work and take time to study
• Do all homework and hand it in on time
• Make decisions to ensure safety
• Follow rules and show leadership
• Play safely
• Be on time for school, classes and sports
• Listen to teachers and take direction with grace
• Accept consequences for my actions
• Have courage to stand up for what I know is right

Live life with Enthusiasm 
I pledge to:

• Embrace and love life
• Believe in myself and make good choices
• Encourage others to do their best
• Be proud of others and myself
• Be happy to offer help to classmates
• Show spirit, help and serve others
• Smile

Misbehaviors involving disrespect of adult authority figures or other students, and ridiculing or harassing others will warrant an immediate referral to the principal. These will be handled accordingly. Misbehaviors will also affect the conduct grade on the report card. Consistent misbehaviors of this level may result in suspension or a Discipline Review Board meeting.
Major infractions including, but not limited to disrespect, irreverence in church, consistent minor infractions, defacing property, bullying, fighting, hitting, stealing, forgery/plagiarism, and misuse of technology may result in immediate suspension and referral to the Discipline Review Board.

Any major infractions or multiple minor infractions may result in a request from the Discipline Review Board for dismissal from school.

Harrassment

The School follows the Philadelphia Archdiocesan Policy prohibiting harassment, including sexual harassment. Sexual Harassment refers to any unwelcome sexual attention, sexual advances, or requests for sexual favors or other verbal, visual or physical conduct of a sexual nature.
 
Sexual Harassment is unacceptable conduct and will not be tolerated. Any student or parent/guardian who is determined to have violated this policy will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action up to and including dismissal of the student. A complete copy of the policy is maintained by the Principal and is available upon request.
 
St. Bernadette School provides a safe environment for all individuals. Verbal or written threats made against the physical or emotional well-being of any individual are taken very seriously. Students making such threats (seriously or in jest oronline) face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.
 
Harassment of any type is not tolerated. The Principal investigates all complaints of harassment. Students involved in harassing behavior face detention, suspension, and/or expulsion.
 
Engagement in social media such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. may result in disciplinary actions if its contents include defamatory comments regarding the school, the faculty, other students, or the parish.

Violence

Violencemay be defined as anything that could cause physical harm to another. Threatened violence is defined as threatening to cause physical harm to another. A student whose verbal or written comments, including e-mail messages, blogs, social media, and cell or text messages include a threat to another student, faculty member or staff shall be:
 

1.     Immediately suspended from school after the parents have been informed of the situation.
2.     Be seen by a psychologist, at the parent’s expense, and by the school counselor, both of whom will be asked to submit a written evaluation.  If it is determined that the child was serious about the threat and has the capacity to carry it out, the child may be dismissed from school.  If it is the opinion of those who evaluate the child that the child did not seriously intend to do harm to others, the child may be allowed to return to school.
3.     If allowed to return to school, the child should be placed on probation with an indication that, should a similar threat occur, the child may be dismissed from the school.
4.     The Office of Catholic Education will be notified in these cases.  The school may also submit to the police an informational report.
5.     When children from the primary/elementary grades are responsible for verbal or written threats, the administration, after informing the parents, will review the matter, will determine the severity of the threat and will take appropriate action which may include any or all of the above.

 
The pastor and/or the principal is the final recourse in all disciplinary situations and may waive any and all regulations for just cause at his/her discretion.