Discipline is the dual responsibility of the home and school.
The Massachusetts General Laws require the School Committee to adopt written policies, rules and regulations not inconsistent with law, which may relate to study, discipline, conduct, safety and welfare of all students, or any classification thereof, enrolled in the public schools system.
The implementation of the general rules of conduct is the responsibility of the principal and the certified staff of the building. In order to do this, each school staff in the School Department shall develop specific rules, not inconsistent with the law or in conflict with School Department policy. These building rules shall be an extension of the School Department policies by being more specific as they relate to the individual schools.
The purpose of disciplinary action is to restore acceptable behavior. When disciplinary action is necessary, it shall be administered with a fairness and shall relate to the individual needs and the individual circumstances.
Students violating any of the policies on student conduct and control will be subject to disciplinary action. The degree, frequency, and circumstances surrounding each incident shall determine the method used in enforcing these policies. Most of the situations which require disciplinary action can be resolved within the confines of the classroom or as they occur by reasonable but firm reprimand, and/or by teacher conferences with the student and/or parents or guardians.
If a situation should arise in which there is no applicable written policy, the staff member shall be expected to exercise reasonable and professional judgment.