Only adult staff with direct child care or supervisory responsibility shall
discipline children. Discipline shall include the use of logical or natural
consequences, redirection, and developmentally appropriate classroom rules which
promote safe and secure learning environments. Discipline is considered an
ongoing process which enables children to develop self-discipline so that they
can manage their own behavior in a socially approved manner. Children shall be
disciplined with kindness and understanding. Positive discipline may include
brief supervised separations from the group or loss of special privileges, such
as play time with other children.
Inappropriate behaviors will be redirected or shaped to appropriate behaviors
when possible. STRIDE Learning Center personnel will facilitate developmentally
appropriate active problem solving techniques with all children. When disruptive
behavior occurs, it is the school's policy for staff to talk firmly and clearly
to the child, to review classroom rules, and to discuss alternative means of
solving the problem. At times it may be necessary to initiate a brief supervised
separation from the group; this is called "time out."
Discipline will not be associated with toilet training nor involve food or
beverage.
Corporal punishment including hitting, spanking, beating, shaking, pinching, and
other measures that produce physical pain will not be used by STRIDE personnel.
Abusive or profane language will not be used nor any form of humiliation
including threats of physical punishment. Any form of emotional abuse including
rejecting, terrorizing, corrupting, isolating or ignoring a child will not be
used. Behaviors of a child may be ignored, but the child will not be ignored.
Children will be treated with respect during all interactions including
behavioral directs. If a child requires modified discipline or a behavior
management program, it will be documented on the Individual Education Plan cover
sheet and explained accordingly.