Discipline
Discipline
School rules are enforced in a positive, fair and firm manner. When a child is disruptive, the teachers help that child understand the consequences of unacceptable behavior. We attempt to redirect an uncooperative child with the intent that he/she will successfully work out an appropriate solution. A child may be given a short, supervised “thinking time” if the unacceptable behavior continues.
We feel discipline should be used to shape, not break, the growing child. Certain types of reoccurring misconduct including fighting, biting, endangerment of self and of others, disruptive behavior, and destruction of property will constitute grounds for immediate initiating of the School Behavioral Plan (refer to School Behavioral Plan below).
First Circle of Friends (FCOF) makes all reasonable efforts to help both children and parents succeed in our program. However, when it is determined that this is not possible, FCOF reserves the right to terminate enrollment. Whenever possible, the family will be given time to locate other options. We consider our school a ministry and it is never our intent to offend or judge, but we cannot allow a child to continue in our program that endangers the safety of classmates and staff or severely interrupts the learning of other children.
A parent may be asked to withdraw their child from First Circle of Friends when:
It is evident the child cannot adjust to the program’s environment;
A child’s behavior becomes physically or emotionally detrimental to other children participating in the program;
A parent fails to complete and submit the required forms;
A parent fails to pay fees when due;
A parent fails to observe FCOF regulations included in handbook;
A parent uses inappropriate language in front of the children or staff;
A parent fails to respect the personal and private lives of the children and staff.
School Behavioral Plan
In the event a child is not compliant to school rules/policies and is exhibiting dangerous behavior, the following plan will be implemented immediately:
A call will be made to the parent to remove child from class for remainder of day;
A parent and teacher conference will be scheduled as soon as possible. The child will not be allowed back in class until this meeting takes place. An individualized plan will be designed to try to allow the child to be successful;
If it is determined that one-on-one supervision is necessary for the child’s success, the parents will be responsible for payment of a qualified teaching assistant, chosen by preschool. Note: if the child is evaluated by the ESD and is put on an IFSP, costs may be covered by the ESD;
If this behavioral plan does not positively affect the child’s behavior, the family will need to withdraw their child.
Discipline Policy for Special Situations
At First Circle of Friends, we believe discipline should positively shape the will and breathe life into the spirit of each of our children.
Certain types of habitual behavior that endanger the child himself/herself, classmates or teachers, or show uncontrollable disrespect could lead to suspension.
It is our intention, should such behavior arise, that teachers would call for an immediate, face-to-face meeting with parents and therein, design a plan of intervention. This could include plans for a professional evaluation before the child is allowed back in the classroom.
If one-on-one supervision should be required for the child’s success upon his/her return to the classroom, the parents would be responsible for payment in the hiring of a qualified teacher assistant, to be chosen by the preschool. If this one-on-one doesn’t positively affect the child’s behavior, the family will, by mutual decision, seek a more suitable preschool environment.
Such actions can often be averted by making sure the child shows readiness for entering a school setting. See Admission Policies page for some essential factors to consider before enrolling your child in preschool.