When Classroom Rules Are Broken

Effective classroom management will increase instructional and learning time. Planning is key to success. Are you ready to take action on every routine/rule that is broken? Are your expectations in place?

First of all, I'll assume that you've already brainstormed a list of rules/routines with your class and that they have been role-modeled and well known by all members. These rules can be referred to as 'Our Classroom Code of Conduct' or 'Our Big 5' or 'Our Classroom Bill of Rights' or 'The Class Constitution'.

Examples of rules are:

1. Always be your best and do your best.
   
2. Be cooperative.
   
3. Respect others and the property of others.
   
4. Always remain on task.
   

OR

1. Be on time, be on task, be prepared.
   
2. Demonstrate respect for yourself, other students and property.
   
3. Behave appropriately at all times.
   

OR

1. Follow directions and instructions.
   
2. Always pay attention.
   
3. Work quietly.
   
4. Always do your best.
   

Once you have established the rules, discuss them and provide questions about what they mean. Provide role-modeling opportunities with the rules.

Set Consequences for Breaking the Rules:

Now, what are the consequences for breaking the rules? If you think you're ready, answer the following questions about your plan.

Are you prepared to be consistent with consequences? This is the important part. What will happen when a student breaks a rule once? What about twice? A third time? This is when your discipline plan really shapes up.

The rule is broken once: The teacher conferences with the student. This should be done in a quiet area in the classroom or just outside the door as to not embarrass the child. The child should be prompted as to what they will do in the future.

The rule is broken a second time:There should be at least one of the following in place:

• time out
• detention
• notice to parent
• student writes a note to parent
• a behavior journal is started with points for positive and consequences for negatives

The rules is broken a third time: Parents are informed of previous inappropriate behavior and that if the behavior continues a behavior plan will be put in place.

The rule is broken a fourth time: Some possible consequences for a rule being broken four times are:

• In school or out of school a one day suspension.
• Referral to a board specialist.
• Involvement of the behavior specialist or special education specialist depending on your school.
• Parent conference.

Essentially, you will want to know what your plan of action is for first through fourth offenses. It pays to be prepared. Also, insure that your instruction strategies are motivating and include choices. Discipline issues are lessened when students are allowed choices and when their preferred learning styles and needs are addressed.

Good luck!