A Kingdom Education Where God is the Center of Everything
Discipline Beliefs and Policy
1. Discipline as an Expression of Love
Discipline is not merely about correcting behavior; it is an act of love aimed at guiding students toward righteousness. Hebrews 12:6-7 reminds us that "the Lord disciplines the one he loves," indicating that discipline is a means of nurturing and not punishment. Similarly, Proverbs 23:13-14 states, "Do not withhold discipline from a child... the rod of discipline will drive it far from them," emphasizing the importance of correction in a child's development.
2. Grace-Filled Accountability
While we extend grace to our students, we also uphold the principle that actions have consequences. Galatians 6:7 teaches, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows," highlighting the importance of personal responsibility. Therefore, our approach includes clear expectations and consistent consequences to help students understand the impact of their choices.
3. Restorative Practices
In instances of misconduct, our goal is restoration, not retribution. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for reconciliation, encouraging individuals to address wrongs directly and seek forgiveness. We implement restorative practices that involve reflection, apology, and steps toward making amends, fostering a culture of healing and reconciliation.
4. Community and Classroom Health
The well-being of the classroom community is paramount. 1 Corinthians 12:25-26 states, "There should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other," underscoring the need for mutual respect and consideration. Behaviors that disrupt the learning environment are addressed promptly to maintain a space where all students can thrive.
5. Role of Teachers and Staff
Teachers and staff serve as models of Christlike behavior, demonstrating patience, kindness, and self-control. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord," guiding educators to nurture students with wisdom and compassion.
6. Collaboration with Families
We believe in partnering with families to support the spiritual and moral development of our students. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 emphasizes the role of parents in teaching their children, stating, "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children." Regular communication between school and home ensures a unified approach to discipline and character formation.
7. Addressing Chronic Disruptive and Defiant Behavior
While we extend grace to our students, we also recognize the importance of maintaining a conducive learning environment. Chronic disruptive and defiant behavior undermines the classroom community and hinders the educational experience for all students. In such cases, we will implement appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or termination of class placement, to restore harmony and uphold the integrity of the learning environment.
8. Three Strikes Policy
To ensure clarity and fairness, we implement a “Three Strikes” policy for addressing chronic disruptive and defiant behavior. This policy is designed to provide students with opportunities to correct their behavior while maintaining a healthy classroom environment.
This policy is implemented with the understanding that discipline is an act of love and is intended to guide students toward personal growth and accountability.
Discipline is not merely about correcting behavior; it is an act of love aimed at guiding students toward righteousness. Hebrews 12:6-7 reminds us that "the Lord disciplines the one he loves," indicating that discipline is a means of nurturing and not punishment. Similarly, Proverbs 23:13-14 states, "Do not withhold discipline from a child... the rod of discipline will drive it far from them," emphasizing the importance of correction in a child's development.
2. Grace-Filled Accountability
While we extend grace to our students, we also uphold the principle that actions have consequences. Galatians 6:7 teaches, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows," highlighting the importance of personal responsibility. Therefore, our approach includes clear expectations and consistent consequences to help students understand the impact of their choices.
3. Restorative Practices
In instances of misconduct, our goal is restoration, not retribution. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines a process for reconciliation, encouraging individuals to address wrongs directly and seek forgiveness. We implement restorative practices that involve reflection, apology, and steps toward making amends, fostering a culture of healing and reconciliation.
4. Community and Classroom Health
The well-being of the classroom community is paramount. 1 Corinthians 12:25-26 states, "There should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other," underscoring the need for mutual respect and consideration. Behaviors that disrupt the learning environment are addressed promptly to maintain a space where all students can thrive.
5. Role of Teachers and Staff
Teachers and staff serve as models of Christlike behavior, demonstrating patience, kindness, and self-control. Ephesians 6:4 instructs, "Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord," guiding educators to nurture students with wisdom and compassion.
6. Collaboration with Families
We believe in partnering with families to support the spiritual and moral development of our students. Deuteronomy 6:6-7 emphasizes the role of parents in teaching their children, stating, "These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children." Regular communication between school and home ensures a unified approach to discipline and character formation.
7. Addressing Chronic Disruptive and Defiant Behavior
While we extend grace to our students, we also recognize the importance of maintaining a conducive learning environment. Chronic disruptive and defiant behavior undermines the classroom community and hinders the educational experience for all students. In such cases, we will implement appropriate disciplinary actions, which may include suspension or termination of class placement, to restore harmony and uphold the integrity of the learning environment.
8. Three Strikes Policy
To ensure clarity and fairness, we implement a “Three Strikes” policy for addressing chronic disruptive and defiant behavior. This policy is designed to provide students with opportunities to correct their behavior while maintaining a healthy classroom environment.
- First Strike: A verbal warning and a discussion with the student to address the behavior
- Second Strike: A written reflection on the behavior and a meeting with the student, teacher, and parent to develop a plan for improvement.
- Third Strike: If the behavior persists, the student's class placement will be terminated, and the student will be dismissed from the classroom.
This policy is implemented with the understanding that discipline is an act of love and is intended to guide students toward personal growth and accountability.
At our school, we are committed to fostering an environment where grace and truth coexist, reflecting the character of Christ. While grace is fundamental to the way we manage each child, we also recognize the importance of maintaining the health and harmony of the entire classroom. As such, our discipline policy is designed to guide students toward personal growth, accountability, and a deeper understanding of God's love.
