Clip System

As you may or may not be aware, in the classroom to help the children monitor their behavior, I use a clip chart.  On the clip chart is a clip with each of the children's names.  When they are meeting expectations of behavior their clip will stay on a center section of the chart indicating that they are ready to learn.  If children exceed my expectations they have the opportunity to move it up.  If they move it up two times and end the day on the top level they get a sticker for their sticker chart.

If unfortunately, students do not meet expectations, they are asked to move their clip down.  The fist clip down is to a warning section.  If behaviors continue to not meet expectations they must move it again.  This results in a consequence of my choosing.  It could be but not be limited to, filling out a sheet to bring home and get signed by a parent, loss of some recess time or anything else I deem appropriate.  I deal with continued repeat offenders differently than a child having one isolated bad day.  If behaviors continue they may have to move their clip again resulting in my asking them to leave the room.  This is usually because the student's behavior is such that it is preventing me from instructing my class and preventing other children from learning.  I use this as a last resort.  If you child has been sent to Mr. O'shea, it is because they have behaving outrageously or because the offense was so severe that is warranted going to directly to an administrator.

We are into the sixth week of school.  I believe the children have a good grasp of our routines and my expectations about how we should be treating one another.    I do anticipate an uptick in the frequency of notes going home until the children realize that I am serious.  Reinforcing with them at home that it is important that they do their best at school will go a long way in helping me to teach them that paying attention and following directions is the best and easiest way to make sure they learn as much as they can.

Thanks,

Jason Joyce