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Discipline Procedures & Expulsion Policy

Discipline Procedures

The school's discipline code is in effect during the PALS program and may be found in your child's school handbook. Children who do not cooperate or follow instructions will be spoken to by staff or a PALS Incident Report may be written up. If the child has to be spoken to on a consistent basis, the parent will also be made aware of the situation. In severe discipline cases, the parent will be called and asked to pick their child up immediately.
 
If the behavior does not significantly improve, the parents will be notified of possible suspension or even exclusion from the program. Participation in the BCS PALS Program is a privilege. This privilege can be revoked due to continued misbehavior or failure to follow the procedures listed in this manual. We want you to know we will do everything possible to work with the family of the child(ren) in order to prevent this policy from being enforced. This is for everyone’s safety and well-being.
 
We abide by the policies in the State of New Jersey Expulsion Policy, as detailed in PALS Expulsion Policy.

PALS Expulsion Policy

Schedule of Expulsion

If remedial actions have not worked, the child’s parent/guardian will be advised verbally and in writing about the child’s or parent’s behavior warranting an expulsion. An expulsion action is meant to be a period of time so that the parent/ guardian may work on the child’s behavior or to come to an agreement with the center. The parent/guardian will be informed regarding the length of the expulsion period. The parent/guardian will be informed about the expected behavioral changes required in order for the child or parent to return to the center. The parent/guardian will be given a specific expulsion date that allows the parent sufficient time to seek alternate child care (approximately one to two weeks’ notice depending on risk to other children’s welfare or safety). Failure of the child/parent to satisfy the terms of the plan may result in permanent expulsion from the center.

A Child will not be Expelled

If a child’s parent(s):

  • Made a complaint to the Office of Licensing regarding a center’s alleged violations of the licensing requirements.
  • Reported abuse or neglect occurring at the center.
  • Questioned the center regarding policies and procedures.
  • Were not given sufficient time to make other child care arrangements.

Proactive actions that may be taken in order to prevent expulsion

Staff will:

  • Redirect child from negative behavior.
  • Reassess classroom environment, appropriateness of activities, and supervision.
  • Use positive methods and language while disciplining children.
  • Praise appropriate behaviors.
  • Apply consequences for rules.
  • Give verbal warnings.
  • Allow for time to regain control.

 

10:22 - 6.8 State of New Jersey Expulsion Policy

Immediate Causes for Expulsion

  • Child is at risk of causing serious injury to other children or himself/herself.
  • Parent threatens physical or intimidating actions toward staff members.
  • Parent exhibits verbal abuse to staff in front of enrolled children.

Parental Actions for Child's Expulsion

  • Failure to pay/habitual lateness in payments.
  • Failure to complete required forms including child’s immunization records.
  • Habitual tardiness when picking up child.
  • Verbal abuse to staff.

Child's Action for Expulsion

  • Failure of child to adjust after a reasonable amount of time.
  • Uncontrollable tantrums/ angry outbursts.
  • Ongoing physical or verbal abuse to staff or other children.

Documentation and Additional Actions

Child’s disruptive behavior will be documented and maintained in confidentiality. Parent/guardian will be notified verbally. Parent/guardian will be given written copies of the disruptive behaviors that might lead to expulsion. The director, classroom staff and parent/guardian will have a conference(s) to discuss how to promote positive behaviors. The parent will be given literature or other resources regarding methods of improving behavior. Recommendation of evaluation by professional consultation on premises or by local school district child study team will be given.