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OUR PHILOSOPHY

 

Our teaching philosophy in Room 212 is that children need lots of structure and love.  Our students feel safe because they know what to expect at almost every turn, from the daily schedule to consequences for behavior.  We do not (or very rarely) suspend students from school.  The way we see it is, our children have behavior disabilities, and if we send them home, we are not helping them improve their behavior.  When a student in room 212 does something inappropriate, disrespectful and/ or dangerous, he/she is put on I.S.S. (in-school suspension).  I.S.S. means that the student continues to come to school, but has few privileges.  He/she cannot go to recess, walk or play with Jack, or play video games when finished with schoolwork.  We have found this to be a far more effective behavior management system than suspended children outside of school.

Our students are also very loved, and they know this.   It is evident to them as well that we staff enjoy ourselves, and love doing what we do.  Fun is a big part of the Room 212 experience.  But it doesn’t come free.  Our students who go on those Fun Friday Field Trips and enjoy movie/ pizza parties have worked hard to earn them with daily behavior points and avoiding I.S.S.!

Everyone in Room 212, students and staff alike, loves being here.   We truly are like a family.  Like any family, we have our struggles, but these are important in challenging each individual to practice being a part of something greater than him/herself and grow.  We tell our students that our class and our school are miniature versions of the world. With love, structure, consistency, (and fun J) we work to help each individual to find their inner smile and how he/she is an important member of the greater community.