Our Discipline Policy
Our discipline policy is based on the Alberta School Act and on guidelines established by the Calgary Board of Education (Progressive Student Discipline). Staff will endeavour to deal with discipline problems in an objective, professional manner, treating each child with respect and bearing in mind the student's individual needs. We incorporate Progressive Student Discipline which means a whole school approach that uses a continuum of intervention, supports and consequences to address inappropriate and unacceptable student behaviour and builds upon strategies that promote behaviours contributing to a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning environment. We believe that students need to assume responsibility for their actions as individuals and as members of a group to ensure that Samuel W. Shaw School is a welcoming, caring, respectful and safe learning community.
It is our desire, as well as our professional duty, to ensure the safety and security of students throughout the day. It is generally understood that students who feel welcome, safe and valued are more effective in their studies. We believe that all students have the right to learn in a safe and secure environment. This right brings with it some responsibilities for students and supervisors.
We believe that the development of self-discipline and positive self-concept must be encouraged for all students. We recognize that our learners are inherently capable and well-meaning, who are usually responsible in their care and respect for themselves, others and their environment. However, we also know that there will be times when they may act impulsively or irrationally. Our approach to dealing with the problems that occur from time to time will reflect this belief in our students.
Whenever a student interferes with the rights of others, disciplinary procedures will be initiated. The staff member who first encounters an incident is the initial person responsible for intervening and for determining the best course of action. Staff will use conflict resolution approaches and due process to resolve the situation, applying natural and logical consequences in response to behaviour difficulties.
