Behavior & Discipline Policy

Est 10/2022, Updated 8/2025

Be Ready, Be Safe, Be Kind – Behavior Guidance Policy

At Mulberry School, we follow the Platinum Rule: Treat others the way they want to be treated. We model and expect kindness, readiness, and safety in all interactions. We value each child’s individuality while fostering a strong, respectful community. Every child has the right to:

  • Learn and work without disruption
  • Express themselves respectfully
  • Be safe, supported, and included
  • Have their space and belongings respected

Staff Expectations

  • Model positive behavior and conflict resolution
  • Use redirection, natural consequences, and consistency
  • Support children in using their words to problem-solve (developmentally appropriate)
  • Reinforce kindness, safety, and readiness in all environments

Behavior Response Steps

  1. Verbal Warning
  2. Take a Break – Calm-down space in the classroom
  3. Out – of – Classroom Break – Notify the front desk; use support text thread if needed. The student will complete a “What Happened / Next Time I Will…” reflection form with a teacher or staff member. A copy goes home and into the student’s file.

Ongoing Behavior Concerns

  1. Communicate with parents to identify causes and create a behavior plan
  2. Involve Non-Profit Director, Academic Coordinator, or Admin Assistant as needed
  3. Persistent issues may lead to a formal support plan, Unit #5 referral, or review by the Board of Directors
  4. Possible outcomes: reduced hours, additional supervision (at family’s expense), or dismissal in extreme cases

Our goal is always to support the child and avoid dismissal when safely possible. All steps will be taken with care, collaboration, and documentation.

Physical Aggression

Any physical aggression that poses a safety concern for students and/or staff may result in immediate removal from the classroom, and potentially removal from the school day.

Procedure

  1. Immediate Action: Staff must contact the Non-Profit Director and/or Academic Coordinator immediately to assess the situation and safely remove the student from the area.
  2. Safety First: Ensure that all students and staff are safe during the incident.
  3. Documentation: Staff involved must document the incident in detail, including what occurred, who was involved, any witnesses, and actions taken to resolve the situation.
  4. Follow-Up: The Non-Profit Director and/or Academic Coordinator will review the incident and determine appropriate next steps, which may include parent communication, behavioral interventions, or further disciplinary action.