BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS
“Yafa Torah Im Derech Eretz” – Study and Learning are enhanced by sensitivity and respect toward others.
The EKA encourages students to develop self-discipline based upon the guidelines of Jewish ethics and a positive self-image. Emphasis is upon “being a Mensch” – displaying a refined and respectable character. Students will take part in a two-year Derech Eretz program teaching them many facets of being a mensch.
In an effort to strengthen the partnership between parents, teachers and students, the EKA has sought to establish clear-cut guidelines for appropriate behavior in school. Students are expected to follow school rules and to assume responsibility for their behavior. They are expected to treat all adults and peers in the school with respect. Teachers and parents are facilitators in the process of helping students behave properly and interact with others in a respectful manner.
The teacher usually handles disciplinary matters. More serious or repeated infractions will be reported to the Education Coordinator and if the behavior continues then referral will be made to the Head of School. In any disciplinary action, children will be treated with concern for their personal dignity and sense of self-worth; in turn they will be expected to respect the rights and property of others. Students must understand the consequences of their actions, thus, any disciplinary action will be a logical consequence of the infraction.
Under no circumstances will a child be permitted to interfere with the learning of others, or to indulge in teasing, abusive, cruel, violent, or aggressive behavior.
For serious matters, conferences with parents will be held. There may be a probationary period where behavior is closely monitored. Suspension or expulsion for serious offenses may be imposed.
The school reserves the right, after reasonable process and careful consideration, to affect the immediate withdrawal of any student whose presence in the school is judged by the school administration to be detrimental to that student, to other students, or to the school's best interests.
In the appendix section of this handbook is the complete Derech Eretz program plus the consequence matrices for misbehavior and harassment/bullying.
Lashon Hara (the sanctity of speech)
No member of our community may use language in a way that is deliberately harmful, defaming, ridiculing, belittling, or obscene. Gossip and cruelty through language are most serious violations of Jewish law and ethics; even the repetition of stories that may have truth but could be hurtful, unless such a repetition is necessary or required for the sake of safety and the overall benefit of the community, is prohibited. Language includes any communication in any form throughout the community. Cursing and rudeness between any members of the community, scape-goating, name-calling, or badgering will not be tolerated.
13 years ago