Discipline
Discipline at St. Luke’s School is based on the assumption that all students and their parents have chosen to be a part of this community and agree to conduct themselves in accordance with the School’s philosophy and principles regarding good character, and the School’s commitment to providing a safe and healthy environment for students. Students whose behavior reflects the School’s objectives will find that the School is flexible and willing to consider increased responsibility and privileges. Students whose behavior does not reflect the School’s objectives will find the School less flexible and that privileges may be curtailed. Indeed, students in poor disciplinary standing may be denied the opportunity to participate in any School-sponsored trip or activity. Most important to the functioning of the St. Luke’s community are issues of physical and emotional well-being, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Students are expected to show respect for each member of the School community. On a daily basis, students are required to arrive to classes on time, in dress code, and prepared for the lesson. Respect for the learning environment in each class is critical to the School’s success as an academic community. Failure to meet these basic requirements may raise the question of the suitability of the St. Luke’s environment for that student. The guidelines in this section apply to all conduct by students, whether on or off campus, as long as they are enrolled at the School. Furthermore, students who choose to remain present when other students are engaging in misconduct may be subject to disciplinary action. The School may, in its discretion, contact parents to address both minor and more serious instances of misconduct, at any stage of the discipline process. Consequences of misconduct (and/or attempting misconduct) applicable to all students are detailed below. These examples are intended to provide students and their families with a general understanding of the School’s disciplinary approach; however, the School will respond to each situation with a response that the School determines, in its discretion, is appropriate.
Middle School Discipline Philosophy Given the playfulness, energy, and unique qualities of the Middle School student, St. Luke’s School recognizes the need to seize upon “teachable moments,” and provide for greater flexibility in matters of discipline for Middle School students. Therefore, both expectations and consequences are age and developmentally appropriate. The primary goal of Middle School discipline for infractions is to educate students about the consequences of unacceptable behavior, to curb such behavior, to teach accountability and to help foster the Middle School belief that moral character and good citizenship are the cornerstones of adolescent development. To help students make the necessary
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