Today's school administrators and counselors recognize the continuing problem of aggression at recess, but struggle with how to respond to it. Given the wide range of possibilities, what can schools do to improve the playground environment? This article addresses that question and also offers a specific disciplinary model that can be applied to…

It's a call every principal dreads: A student loses control and is endangering himself or herself, other students, teachers, and staff. Responding quickly--and appropriately--requires clear thinking, comprehensive training, and knowledge of sound policies and techniques. Even then, seclusion and restraint practices can be controversial. A recent…

Research indicates that students with significant needs, including students with autism spectrum disorder, benefit from participating in schoolwide positive behavior supports (SWPBS). Outlined here is how schools can fully implement SWPBS, thus providing a more supportive setting for students on the spectrum.

Controversy over the use of corporal punishment is a major issue in United States schools. In view of the uncertain status of corporal punishment, 10 costly mistakes that may risk lawsuits or criminal charges and ways to avoid them are described. (SI)

A schoolwide approach to discipline that is focused, proactive, and consistent is more likely to be effective than the classroom-by-classroom approach used by many schools, since it "sets in motion a culture of recognition that reduces the risk of students slipping into situations where they misbehave to get attention" (Brownell and Walther-Thomas…

Inspired by an emotionally disturbed youngster impossible to discipline, one elementary school instituted a discipline policy providing humane and positive methods for managing most children's behavior. The primary goal is to alert children to wrongdoing using a ticketing system and to recognize good behavior through an honors policy. (MLH)

Feeling out of touch with daily classroom realities, a Washington State superintendent spent seven half-days as a routine substitute teaching elementary school classes. Newly sensitized, the author shares his insights concerning class size, classroom management, and educational technology issues. (MLH)

A firm commitment to prevention and a caring curriculum are a school's best defense against student violence. Few educators have training for meeting students' psychological needs or techniques for working with angry, frustrated youngsters. If loners' need for recognition is not met, they will eventually act out or withdraw. (MLH)

Excerpted from a forthcoming book, this article documents a Chicago school's struggle with an incorrigible student. The story is told from the principal's point of view and documents the conflicts resulting from the student's misbehavior and the school's attempt to provide a learning environment. (MD)

Two recent federal court decisions side with school authorities. In both cases the judges held the plaintiffs liable for the attorney fees of the defendants. The author comments that this may reflect a partial changing of the federal courts' attitude, yet cautions schools to remain vigilant of student rights. (MD)

Many youngsters need help in learning to deal with their anger, despair, and frustrations. Punishment forces compliance, rather than encouraging students to take responsibility for their own behavior. Punishment works best when used occasionally and when behavior rules and guidelines have been developed with student input. Routine use of…

Most schools need to review and revise disciplinary rules each year, but good administrator never publishes list of rules that have not been endorsed by "significant others" on staff or in community. By starting process in April or May, instead of August, the principal has several months to secure the necessary endorsements and involve parents.…

Nine years ago the Caloosa Elementary School in Caloosa, Florida, ranked below the national average. In 1987 the school was cited as one of 210 oustanding elementary schools in the country. The school was changed by a new administrative team that developed discipline, student achievement, and program enrichment. (MD)

Describes how three middle school reading teachers maintain a good classroom environment and obtain student trust by being clear about rules, exhibiting respect for student feelings and concerns, expecting respect in return, and acting decisively when inappropriate behavior does occur. (PGD)

An Alaska elementary school developed an innovative program to reduce bus problems arising from discipline infractions and driver/student frustrations. On every first Tuesday, the principal meets with drivers to offer encouragement and training. Students earn individual and group points for good bus behavior and receive small treats from the…