Description of the practice:
Our program developed a behavior policy that encourages positive social interactions for students. This policy provides students the opportunity to understand clear and consistent expectations. Students become accountable for own self and aim to succeed. Families are also involved in the process. Parent/guardians, along with their child, read and sign the policy.
Our program uses a three-card system daily to allow students to recognize acceptable behavior. Students are given three opportunities to make acceptable choices.
The three-card system works as follows:
Each student has three cards, and when an unacceptable behavior is displayed the student turns one card. (S display board with rules clearly written is used to hold the cards).
Each day the staff teachers record and chart the results.
Positive behaviors are recognized immediately with either a sticker or positive comment.
At the end of the month all students are awarded for participation (pizza party, ice cream, movie, etc.) and the students who reach their behavior goals receive an extra incentive (award certificate).
Sample behavior policy
Charts and Display Boards can be designed.
Needed materials and costs:
Project board for each group ($7.00)
Colored Construction paper (minimal costs)
Stickers ($5.00)
Card Stock (Minimal cost)
Rewards (varied cost)
How do you know this practice is having a positive impact on students?
Student behavior has improved since implementing this policy. By providing clear behavior expectations, students' positive attitudes toward learning has increased. The overall learning environment has also improved the students' relationships with their peers. The evidence of this policy working is shown in student SAYO results. The charts have received positive parental support and consistent reinforcement of the policy should show additional results this year.
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If applicable, describe strategies that were used to overcome barriers you may have faced.
Our program was successful in implementing this policy, however it involved parental support. Parents needed to take the time to talk to and support their child regarding this policy. We did this by offering a parents night to discuss this policy. We also sent home the policy to those not able to attend and made follow-up phone calls to parents.
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What factors do you think have contributed most to the success of this practice?
The factor that contributed most to this practice is the student's willingness to successfully reach their goal in order to receive a reward.
What suggestions do you have for others regarding potential improvements?
This policy can be modified to suit any program.
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