By this time in the school year, students normally have a pretty good sense of classroom expectations and school rules. For some reason, however, there have been several recent occasions when students have been making the wrong choices, particularly on the playground at morning and lunch recess. We have also had some difficulty with students being non-compliant in the classroom.
Our main issue right now is safety and we are very disappointed to report that several students have been hurting each other while lining up and while playing outside. Pushing, hitting, kicking and other bodily contact are unacceptable ways to communicate frustration and anger. We need to help our kids learn that they need to use their words to communicate and tell each other to “stop” when someone is bothering them. Physical outbursts often result when a student is frustrated because another student says something that they don’t like. Their first response needs to be a clear “Stop!” Our school-wide PBIS program stresses the “Stop, Walk and Talk” approach that encourages kids to tell the person bothering to stop, then walk away. If the problem is resolved, they have learned an important skill; if not they can tell an adult when necessary. Students may not poke others, push them or hit them just because they don’t like something they said. They also need to understand that their words have power and they must choose them carefully. Resolving these issues in class takes away from learning time and though we discuss our expectations often, it helps to have your support from home. We want to help students learn to get along with others and solve their problems when possible.
Even if you think this issue does not apply to your child, please take a few minutes to talk about school safety expectations. We want to promote a safe, engaging environment where all of our students can learn. Thanks so much for your support. ☺
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