Guiding Beliefs

We believe that all children have the right to a safe, comfortable school environment.  Although Groton’s children are generally well behaved and demonstrate a high regard for the safety and consideration of others, state regulations require that we formally address behavior, which can cause disruption to the school environment, as well as the consequences of that behavior.  The following code of behavior has been established to assist students, teachers, parents, and administrators to promote patterns of behavior that enhance an orderly learning community within our school.

Purpose and General Guidelines

In order to establish a common understanding and consistent response, the following code will be used.  This code classifies behavior into three levels, based on the degree to which it disrupts students and the learning environment.  It is neither easy nor helpful to list all unacceptable behaviors and appropriate reactions.  However, several examples of behavior in each level are provided as a reference.

Level 1

Level 1 Behaviors

Level 1 behaviors are those that interfere with the orderly learning environment of the school, classroom, and common areas.  Students learn through their mistakes.  To this extent, responses to the daily behaviors, which occur in school, should be developmentally appropriate, instructive and positive. Children should be taught what is expected and how they should behave.  Listed below are some examples of the types of behavior that are included in Level 1.  Please note the list is not exhaustive.

• Failure to prepare for class, as defined by individual teachers and specialists
• Running in the hallways
• Disturbing the work or play of others
• Disrespectful language, tone, or manner

Level 1 Disciplinary Actions

Consequences for Level 1 behavior are dependent upon the severity and frequency of the specific behavior.  Teachers will discipline students at level 1.  Some examples of Level 1 responses are:

• Discussion of behavior with the child
• Verbal reminder(s)
• Reinforcement of alternative positive behavior
• Loss of privileges
• Parent contact
• Small group or whole class lesson if several students are involved; e.g. use of Open Circle, morning meeting, etc.
• Behavior contract

Level 1 Supportive Actions

Listed below are some examples of Level 1 supportive actions:

• Classroom-based interventions, such as Open Circle or class meetings, with the option of informal consultation, (e.g. with parent or staff members)
• Informal notes regarding incident/intervention/date.  This information would be useful should a problem persist.

Level 2

Level 2 Behaviors

Level 2 behaviors are those that seriously interfere with the orderly environment of the school and are potentially dangerous to the safety and well being of the students and staff.  Listed below are some examples of the types of behavior that are included in Level 2.  Please note the list is not exhaustive.

• Repeated instances of Level 1 behavior which have not been modified by intervention
• Behavior which is dangerous to self or others (e.g. shoving, pushing, hitting)
• Intentionally damaging school or personal property
• Stealing
• Cheating
• Use of profanity
• Derogatory reference to another person’s race, gender, religion, physical condition, handicap, or ethnic origin
• Disrespectful language or behavior toward an adult
• Possession or use of dangerous toys or sporting equipment (e.g. bow and arrows, any kind of knives, etc.)

Level 2 Disciplinary Actions

The disciplining of students for Level 2 behavior is dependent upon the severity and frequency of the specific behavior and developmentally appropriate levels.  The disciplinary actions at Level 2 usually are administered by the Principal, Assistant Principal, or Guidance Counselors and include the formal notification of parents, with written documentation.  Some examples of Level 2 responses are:

• After school detention
• In school suspension
• Parent conference
• Suspension from school of one to five days, depending on the severity of the behavior
• Team conference to include classroom teacher, other involved staff, Assistant Principal or Principal, guidance counselors.  Additional Team members may include other staff, parent or student.
• Implementation of extensive behavior management plan

Level 2 Supportive Actions

Listed below are some examples of Level 2 supportive actions:

• Referral to a Child Study Team and development of an action plan.
• Inform and involve other staff as needed.
• Support in developing management plan
• Consultation
• Review of implementation/effectiveness of plan within six months.  The team will determine review-meeting timeline. A meeting can be called at any time, regardless of timeline, based on need.

Level 3

Level 3 Behaviors

Level 3 behaviors are considered the most serious violations.  These behaviors endanger the immediate health, safety and personal well being of the students and adults who attend our school.  They represent a direct threat to the orderly operation of the school environment.  Situations, which include illegal activity, may result in contact with the Groton Police after parental involvement.  Listed below are some examples of the types of behavior that are included in Level 3.  Please note that the list is not exhaustive.

• Repeated or serious instances of Level 2 behavior which have not been modified by intervention
• Setting fires
• Intentional possession or use of weapons
• Violent fighting or intentionally causing physical harm to others
• Discriminatory or prejudicial activities or actions toward another person or group involving race, gender, religion, physical condition, handicap, or ethnic origin

Level 3 Disciplinary Actions

Behavior at Level 3 may involve suspension from school.  The length of the suspension will depend upon the severity and frequency of the specific behavior.  Specific information about due process procedures is available upon request.  Level 3 responses:

• Suspension from school for one to five days:

This response will occur with the first incidence of Level 3 behavior or Level 2 behavior of significant severity.  The Principal or Assistant Principal, following formal due process procedure, can issue a suspension.

• Suspension from school for five to ten days:

This response will occur with the repeated incidence of Level 3 behavior or a severe expression of this behavior.  A suspension of this magnitude will be issued with the involvement of the Superintendent.

• Expulsion:

Repeated incidents of Level 3 behavior can result in a child being expelled.  If this occurs, the child and his/her family will be entitled to all the hearings and appeals through the School Committee.  It is anticipated that this course of action will rarely, if ever, occur.