We would like all our students to consistently practice appropriate school behavior.  In order to help all the children get on the best behavior track possible, I have initiated a positive behavior plan for the class.   The plan involves both reinforcing of positive behaviors as well as consequences for negative behaviors. 

 

Each child is given a packet of colored cards-white, yellow, orange and red.  The cards start out at white each day.  If poor behavior is exhibited once, the card gets flipped to yellow and a verbal warning is given.  If, during the same day, the student exhibits poor behavior for a second time, their card is flipped to orange and they lose 5 minutes off recess.  The student will be given opportunity to regain recess time if their behavior improves, or if poor behavior continues to be exhibited, they will receive additional minutes off recess. If their card is flipped a 3rd time, to red, they have 15 minutes taken off recess and you may receive a note home.  The note may be(circumstances vary) in a red communication folder (the red card means “the red folder”).  The note will explain the behaviors exhibited and you will need to sign and return the note and send it back in the folder. 

 

Behavior that is serious and puts the child, other students or staff in danger in any way will immediately require a formal referral to the principal’s office, and a copy may be put in the child’s file.  In addition, poor behavior repeated more than 3 times in the same day may result in the same consequence. * Please note that minor behavior incidents are usually handled with a verbal warning and if not repeated, do not result in a card being turned. Situations vary and students are given opportunities to self-correct; such as earning back a card, or taking the minutes off recess 1 a time after the card is turned.

 

Now for the positive part of the plan; each child will receive a star on a “Caught Being Good” chart if their card has not been flipped for the day.  Even if a card goes to red on one day, we start fresh the next day, so each day the child is given the opportunity to receive a star on the chart.  Once a child has received 5 stars, they will be able to select a prize.  When their row on the chart is filled and 20 stars have been received, students will receive a "Good News Note".  This note will explain what your child did to earn it. I will also occasionally give students stars and/or a "Good News Note" for individual accomplishments,  and of course, you may reinforce your child’s good school behavior at home as well!