Liesl Burgher

Philosophy of Student Discipline

October 19, 2014

As a principal, I want to reinforce the important roles that teachers, support staff, and
other adults in the building have in relation to student behavior. I believe the most effective way
to create a positive learning environment is to have a staff that works together to create schoolwide common procedures and language that reinforces our core beliefs of what we expect from
students. I want to enable teachers to build relationships with students and equip them with the
tools they need to support students in their classroom. Finally, I want to encourage an open
conversation between staff, students and guardians in support of success for each and every
student.
Coming from a school that uses Positive Behavior Intervention and Supports (PBIS), I
have experienced the impact of creating a school wide common language that focuses on the
preferred student behaviors. One way schools can use common language by defining building
wide behavioral expectations as a team. The consistency this provides for students is very
helpful, as it can carry on from year to year and be continuously reinforced by every staff and
faculty member in the building. These expectations can then be used to create building wide
procedures for common areas. For these areas, faculty is able to define what the procedure looks
like, sounds like, and feels like. Students are given opportunities to learn and practice these
produces just like they would practice their academics.
As a principal I will create positive learning environments for all students and staff. I
have seen behaviors interrupt and take away learning time for students in the classroom. I want
to support students and teachers by doing regular walk-throughs and checking in specifically
with students who may need more support. I also expect teachers to greet each student as they
enter the room and do a quick, positive check-in to help the student start their day off on a good
note. My own experience has taught me how important using positive words with students can

Liesl Burgher

Philosophy of Student Discipline

October 19, 2014

be. I want to set an example with my staff by modeling the use of positives with both students
and staff. In speaking with my current principal, positive reinforcement is most effective when
the principal sets a strong example of what it looks like with their staff and students. I will work
to enable teachers to support student behavioral needs and reinforce a four-positives-per-negative
ratio.
Finally, I believe in open communication between school and home. As a principal, I will
work to continuously communicate with families and staff to support the learning of all students.
I believe that when teachers, students, and guardians work together to correct poor behaviors, the
student and teacher is then able to focus on meeting the academic needs. I also believe that when
a student sees the communication and collaboration between staff and families, they better
understand how they are supported. An open dialogue between everyone can foster positive
behaviors both in the classroom and beyond.
While each school is different, each school is made up of staff, students, and families
who all want wants best for kids. This includes giving them a safe environment where they can
focus on the academic needs and just be kids. I believe that when staff, students and parents
communicate, we can meet the needs of kids and help them to succeed.