why is it important to follow school rules essay

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Importance Of School Rules (Essay Sample) 2023

Table of Contents

Importance Of School Rules

Introduction.

Remember when, as a child, you were always reminded about the importance of school rules and regulations? Your parents and teacher probably repeatedly told you that obeying school rules is ultimately for your own good.

How Can I Get Essay For Free and Is it realistic to expect a low-cost, High-Quality Essay from a Cheap Paper Writing Service ?

In this essay, I talk about the advantages of school rules and why are school rules important. Rule-following sometimes gets bad flak, but I want to offer a fresh perspective on the overall importance of school policies.

If you want your own custom essay on the benefits of school rules and regulations, feel free to send us a message so that we can help.

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Importance of school rules and regulations essay

Following rules formally begins when a child starts class. The humble classroom is a place where kids first encounter the need to follow rules outside the home. 

Rules are there for a reason: they are guidelines that enable a student to be disciplined and have good decorum. There are rules that discuss how to conduct oneself among peers, while other mandates talk more about the technicalities and schedules a student must follow.

This essay aims to explore in-depth the significance of having academic policies and how they benefit the students.

Creating focus, empowering education

Firstly, having academic regulations is important because it creates healthy and safe boundaries for students to focus on their studies. It gives them the best chance to excel in their classes.

The same focus also creates a strong awareness of what is allowed and what is not. Just as regulations spell out how students are expected to behave, they also clarify the consequences of misbehaving. This serves as a preventive measure for bad conduct, as students are made aware early on what they should not be doing. When explained properly, rules will be understood by students as guidelines created for their overall safety and well-being.

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Establishing the school’s academic reputation

Academic regulations do not only benefit the students themselves. As more students happily adhere to policies, the school’s reputation gets a boost.

It must be said that parents are the ultimate decision-makers when it comes to their children’s schooling. Many of these discerning parents do not just consider geographic location when it comes to selecting their kids’ future schools. They take a long, thoughtful look at the school’s track record; whether or not it is known for producing people of good character. It is the graduates of the academy who serve as the most effective testimonials for the academy.

Holds a safe space for character formation

Regulations also exist to help a student get back on his feet after breaking an ordinance. In situations where a rule is disobeyed, academies also have protocols in place to help a student learn from his mistakes and become better.

Whether disciplinary action refers to suspension or community service, it is meant to empower students to recognize mistakes when they are made and resolve to do things differently next time.

Preparation for a future with more rules

People will always encounter policies, in and out of classrooms. We are all accountable to someone. As such, rule-following in class is a solid foundation for dealing with larger and stricter regulations as one gets older, graduates, and enters the workforce.

It also teaches students to respect authorities and maintain good relationships with them. Respect is an important trait to master in class, as being respectful can take you to places that will put you on the road to success.

If respect is not learned in class through rule-following, a student may either face the consequence of not being allowed to graduate; or struggle with compliance in real-life. If you think about it, their future jobs and families are at stake. The community they live in will also be affected, as these are places where respect is a currency.

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Some might say that rules and regulations are stifling and suffocating. They might think that they limit one’s freedom to enjoy life.

In this case, a change in perspective is needed. Fences are not meant to keep us in, but to provide a clear safe space for us to truly thrive. This is essentially what rules are meant to do. Boundaries are a healthy way for us to grow, learn, unlearn, and relearn.

At the end of the day, while rule-setting may get the ire and criticism of some, they ultimately serve the greater good. Regulations are not meant to keep students from having fun while learning. On the contrary, they are there to protect the culture and atmosphere where learning is meant to happen.

I implore every parent to also train their children to appreciate rules, even before they enter school. A lot of the foundational training on compliance should really start at home. Give your child every chance to succeed in the real world.

Short Essay About School Rules And Regulations

Implementing school rules stirs up both positive and skeptical conversations among people. They wonder if it really is effective in promoting good behavior. I firmly believe that adhering to policies cultivates not only academic values but also moral values.

Students tend to think that policy-following is like their school raining on their parade, that it is a way to simply get them under control. I think that academic policies and regulations actually create a comfortable environment where they can thrive. They help learners can feel safe and enjoy the curriculum their teacher has mapped out for them.

Academic rules do not only pertain to dress code or class schedule; they also outline disciplinary actions that serve as consequences to rule-breaking. Such actions exist for the better welfare of all students, whether policy-breaker or policy-follower. It provides an avenue for support for a student who may be experiencing peer pressure or low self-esteem; or a way to repair the consequences of one’s mistakes. Educators also benefit as they can maximize their class time without any disruptions. The main reason why these classroom rules exist is to empower students to take responsibility for their actions.

What To Include In An Essay About Rules And Regulations In School

If you are crafting a general piece about academic policies and regulations, it’s important to identify the angle you want to approach it from. Do you want to focus on the state of school policies today? Do you want to feature a specific school’s new rules and evaluate them? Do you want to do broad strokes on the importance of school policies? Finding your angle is important because without it, you may end up with an extra-long essay that reflects directionless thoughts.

10 Reasons Why Rules Are Important In School

What are 10 reasons why classroom policies are crucial to the success of the student, educator, and academe?

• They set healthy boundaries for all the members of the school to thrive in.
• They protect student-educator relationships inside and outside school.
• They provide helpful guidelines for learners on how to properly conduct themselves around others.
• They teach students the value and importance of respecting authorities, not just in school but in all aspects of society that they will eventually be part of.
• They provide a safe environment for healthy friendships to form.
• They prevent students from inflicting unnecessary harm to another.
• They add to the school’s good image, thanks to the quality of graduates it produces.
• They promote good behavior among classmates.
• They allow students to have ownership over their own decisions, including any consequences resulting from their actions.

Essay on School Rules And Regulations

Students are often asked to write an essay on School Rules And Regulations in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on School Rules And Regulations

Introduction to school rules.

School rules and regulations are important for keeping everyone safe and ensuring a peaceful environment for learning. They guide how students should behave, dress, and interact with each other and teachers.

Importance of Following Rules

Following these rules helps maintain order and discipline. It makes sure all students have equal opportunities to learn and grow. When everyone respects the rules, the school becomes a better place for education.

Types of School Rules

Some common rules include attending classes on time, wearing the correct uniform, and respecting teachers and classmates. There are also rules about not bullying and keeping the school clean.

Consequences of Breaking Rules

Breaking school rules can lead to various consequences like warnings, detention, or even suspension for serious offenses. These consequences teach students the importance of responsibility and following guidelines.

School rules and regulations are essential for creating an environment where everyone can learn and succeed. By following these rules, students contribute to a positive and respectful school community.

250 Words Essay on School Rules And Regulations

School rules and regulations: a foundation for learning.

At school, we all have a role to play in creating a safe, respectful, and productive learning environment. School rules and regulations provide a clear framework to guide our behavior and interactions, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

Promoting Safety and Well-being

The primary goal of school rules is to ensure the safety and well-being of all students, staff, and visitors. This includes ensuring a safe physical environment with proper fire and emergency procedures. It also includes fostering a culture of respect and tolerance, where everyone is treated fairly and with dignity.

Fostering Respectful Behavior

School rules promote respectful behavior by outlining expectations for communication, conduct, and interactions between students, staff, and parents. Rules such as refraining from bullying, harassment, and vandalism create a climate where everyone feels safe and valued. They also teach students essential social skills, such as listening actively, resolving conflicts peacefully, and showing empathy for others.

Creating an Environment Conducive to Learning

School rules help create an environment where students can focus on their studies. Rules such as being punctual, attentive in class, and completing assignments on time ensure that students have the best chance to succeed academically. They also promote self-discipline and organizational skills, which are valuable life skills that students can carry with them beyond the classroom.

Ensuring Fairness and Equity

School rules provide a foundation for fairness and equity for all students. They ensure that everyone is treated equally and has access to the same opportunities. Rules also help prevent favoritism and bias, ensuring that all students are evaluated based on their abilities and achievements, regardless of their background or circumstances.

In conclusion, school rules and regulations are essential for creating a positive and productive learning environment. They promote safety, well-being, respectful behavior, and academic success. By following these rules, students, staff, and parents work together to create a school community where everyone can thrive.

500 Words Essay on School Rules And Regulations

What are school rules and regulations.

School rules and regulations are a set of guidelines that every student must follow. These rules are made to ensure that all students can learn in a safe and friendly environment. Just like rules at home that help keep everyone in the family happy and safe, school rules do the same for everyone in the school.

Why are School Rules Important?

Imagine a school without any rules. It would be very chaotic! Students might arrive at school whenever they want, run around the hallways, or even be unkind to each other without worrying about any consequences. This would make learning very difficult. That is why schools have rules. They help make sure that everyone knows what is expected of them so that the school can be a great place for learning and growing.

There are many different types of rules in a school. Some rules are about being on time, like making sure you arrive at school before the bell rings. Other rules might be about wearing a uniform, if your school has one, to make sure everyone feels equal and focused on their studies. There are also rules about how to behave towards others, ensuring that all students treat each other with respect and kindness.

Following Rules in the Classroom

In the classroom, rules help make sure that every student has a chance to learn. This includes raising your hand to speak so that not everyone is talking at once and listening carefully when the teacher or another student is speaking. These simple rules help keep the classroom a calm place where learning can happen easily.

Rules Outside the Classroom

Rules are not just for inside the classroom; they apply to other parts of the school as well. For example, running in the hallways can be dangerous, so schools have rules about walking calmly to your next class. There are also rules for the playground to make sure that everyone can play safely and have fun without getting hurt.

When a student chooses not to follow the rules, there are consequences. These can vary depending on what rule was broken and how serious the action was. Consequences are not meant to be mean; they are a way to help students learn from their mistakes and understand the importance of following rules.

The Role of Students

As a student, it is your responsibility to know the rules of your school and to follow them. By doing so, you help create a positive environment for yourself and your classmates. Following the rules shows that you respect yourself, your teachers, and your fellow students. It is also a way to prepare for the future, as following rules is a part of life outside of school as well.

In conclusion, school rules and regulations are essential for creating a safe and productive learning environment. By understanding and following these rules, students contribute to making their school a better place for everyone. Remember, rules are there to help us, and by respecting them, we show respect for ourselves and those around us.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

If you’re looking for more, here are essays on other interesting topics:

• Essay on School Journey
• Essay on School Experience
• Essay on School As A Second Home

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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7 Reasons Why Students Should Follow Rules In School

In any field of life, rules are very important no matter whether you are studying in school, working in business, or in any other place, every wise person knows without rules effects, becuase without rules Everything is reversed. In the educational field in school, students want this answer why students should follow rules in school.

In the classroom, Students should follow rules in school because it helps keep everyone safe but some rules should be changed . Rules make sure we learn and play nicely with our friends. They teach us to be responsible and respectful which will benefit all who follow the rules.

When we follow rules, our teachers can teach us better, and we can concentrate on our lessons. Some students don’t like rules and disobey rules because rules mean you do what the school tells you to do and don’t do what the school doesn’t tell you to do.

7 Reasons why students should follow rules in school

1. safety comes first.

Without any doubt Safety Comes First is the most fundamental reason why students should follow rules in school. It means that the well-being and protection of students are the top priorities in any educational environment and if students follow rules and they should follow rules for their own safety.

When students follow school rules no matter outside the school or especially in the classroom, such as not running in hallways, listening to safety instructions, or wearing appropriate safety gear during activities, they contribute to a safe school environment. We all know that many schools also have rules that affect the mental capacity of the student, becuase of their strictness, these strict rule becomes a headache for the student which is not good for any students.

Those rules that are good and students enjoy with these rules can give a lot of benefits, how to cross the road? How to talk with a teacher with good manners and how to spend time outside of the school, knowing that their school cares for their well-being. 

2. Learn and Grow

If you experience about such schools that are not well established in rules, they will never achieve any success. Students who want to learn and grow, then definitely should follow the rules in school college, or university. We tell you about the rule that should must be in the classroom which is “focus” which means when the teacher gives a lecture to their student, focus rules should be implemented that students do not do anything that divides their attention into two parts. So, if you are a student and you face a lot of rules in school, be happy this is a good sign for your growth.

3. Show Respect Always

Respect is like a golden rule in school – it means treating others the way you want to be treated. In other words, Respecting rules means listening to your teachers, following instructions, and being kind to your classmates. Everyone wants respect and it is difficult to give respect which not everyone can. When students follow rules that promote respect, it creates a positive and inclusive school environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

Every time you show respect , you build a supportive atmosphere in which both teaching and learning flourish. It is a two-way street, when you respect others, they are more likely to respect you in return. This reasons basically a life skill that makes you valuable in every eye of the society becuase your actions can make a big difference, both now and in the future.

4. Build Good Habits

Without the rule, you forget your good quality and when your good quality is gone then automatically your journey on the bad habit starts! Think of rules as your daily routine in school. When you consistently follow them, you are actually building good habits that will benefit you throughout your life.

For example, when you enter your school at the right time and complete all your assignments, and submit them on time, this will make you responsible and punctual and give you success not only in school but also in your future endeavors, such as college and your career.

5. Fairness for Everyone: 

Everyone should be treated in the classroom equally no matter what students status in financially are. And even what is the student level?

Think about it that if some students could do whatever they wanted in school, while others had to follow rules. That wouldn’t be fair, right? That is why rules are so important. They make sure that every student, no matter who they are, is treated equally and has the same opportunities. 

6. Keep School Orderly: 

If schools have no rules, there would be no schedule, no way to know where to go, no way to know what should be character and discipline in school no way to know how to ask any question to the teachers which lecture. But thanks to rules, the school stays organized.

So, when you follow school rules, you’re not just following orders, you are actively contributing to an organized school environment where everyone can thrive.

7. Achieve Great Things

If you are a student and want to get big success in your school, college university, And above all in life, without rules this is not possible. 

Think of school rules as stepping stones on your path to success. Just like in a game, following these rules helps you move forward toward your goals. Rules also teach you about responsibility and accountability . These qualities are like a secret weapon that can help you excel not only in school but also in life.

In conclusion, we can say that the importance of students following rules in school cannot be overstated. Always Remember and don’t forget if you are a student, following rules in school is not just about compliance, it is a valuable investment in yourself, your education, and a foundation. So, follow rules to make your life on the path where you gain great success and a bright future.

Every student asks why we should follow rules so now we hope we give an answer in detail that builds your mind and improves your concept about the rule.

This question is only for students: What are your thoughts on the role of rules in school? How have they shaped your educational experience or personal growth?

Feel free to comment in the below section!

Mohammed Ahmed is a writer, problem solver, and speaker. He has written a lot of books on self-improvement for the betterment of the world. His books have become trusted resources for learners of all ages, like students, teachers, and everyone who wants to get better knowledge. Through his amazing writing, he aims to empower individuals to embrace critical thinking and personal growth, contributing to a brighter future through education.

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Why Classroom Rules Are Important and How to Communicate Them

April 20, 2022 | eSpark Contributor

Teacher Resources | Best Practices

Educational and emotional success for all students begins with classroom rules that are fair and reasonable. Help your students understand boundaries and expectations for classroom behavior by setting and enforcing rules with clear and consistent consequences.

Why Are Classroom Rules Important?

Elementary and middle school classroom rules set expectations. They let everyone know how they should behave and why. Fair rules shouldn’t change your classroom’s culture too abruptly, but they should allow space for creativity, personality, and communication. 

They ensure the physical and emotional safety of students and protect their educational experience from disruptions or offenses. Guidelines for behavior shouldn’t feel restricting – they should feel enriching. Every student should understand and feel that the classroom is a safe space, and rules will help to create that space.

Creating Classroom Rules

Imagine your ideal classroom culture. Should students raise their hands before talking, or are students free to speak as they please? Can students move around the room, or should they remain in an assigned seat?

Then, imagine your students’ ideal classroom culture. Where does it intersect with your own vision? Where does it not? Consider if there are compromises you can make to create a comfortable space for everyone. Use these visions to shape the structure of your rules.

Involving your students in creating the classroom rules can help to establish open communication . Students might feel empowered by having more control over their educational space and, therefore, be more likely to follow the rules. They’ll know the rules are fair, reasonable, and benefiting everyone. Throughout the school year, students might even come to you with additions or changes to the rules as the class evolves.

Whether establishing the rules yourself or working with your class to create them, keep in mind that many students have more than one teacher throughout the school day, so staying consistent with your rules is crucial. Keeping your classroom’s rules closely aligned with those of your school and your fellow teachers will help prevent confusion and disruptions.

Here are some examples to help you and your students get started, though they may vary based on your school’s policies:

Examples of Classroom Rules

All grade levels

“Be kind to your classmates and teacher.”

“don’t speak when others are speaking. take the time to listen .”.

Elementary School Classroom Rules

“Move where you please, but when the teacher is speaking you must find a place to sit.”

“never give up on an assignment. if a classmate can’t help you find an answer, bring it to the teacher for help”.

Middle School Classroom Rules

“Phones are for emergencies. If you know you may need to check your phone, speak with the teacher before class.”

“if you’re late to class, silently find your seat. talk with the teacher during break or at the end of class.”.

As you create each rule either on your own or with your class, establish reasonable consequences for each rule. What consequence would make sense for what offense? What happens if the rule is broken multiple times by the same student/s? 

Make sure these consequences are clear to each student so that when a rule is broken, they will understand their offense and its repercussions. And, as with classroom rules, provide reasoning for classroom consequences. 

How to Teach Classroom Rules

If your classroom’s rules were created in collaboration with your students, a lot of the work in teaching and enforcing these rules may have been done for you.

However, if you established the classroom’s rules yourself, you may still need to lay the foundations. To introduce rules to your students, start with the reasoning behind them. Let them know that the rules will keep them safe, make the classroom comfortable for everyone, and promote an undisrupted education experience. You can also ask if anyone has anything they would like to add or if they think any of the rules are unfair.

It can also help to create a visual of the rules in your classroom. You can even try having your class create the visual themselves! Write out the rules, or have a student write them, on a poster then have everyone color around the words or draw representations of the rules next to them. Wrap up the activity by having each student sign their name at the bottom as if it were a contract, and use this experience as an opportunity to have everyone involved in the rule-setting process. 

From then on, if a rule is broken, you can ask the student/s about the rule and its reasoning. Then, once the proper consequences have been administered, you can see if the student or the class thinks the rules are still fair or if they need to be adjusted and why. Remaining consistent with rules and consequences is important but so is communication. Make it routine to check in with your students on the rules and how they feel about them.

While you’re here, consider signing up for a free eSpark account below so you can start enjoying a unique blend of play-based learning and evidence-based pedagogy. It’s a better way to practice elementary math and reading skills, and you won’t find a more engaging supplement for your lessons.

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How to Establish a Rules-and-Consequences System in the Classroom

By The TFA Editorial Team

June 30, 2015

This post was adapted from a larger lesson plan by Teach For America alum Rachel Wright.

A healthy rules and consequences system is essential in creating a culture of respect and academic achievement in the classroom. Before embarking on tackling your big learning goals for the year, your students need a chance to internalize rules and consequences, have a chance to see them illustrated or demonstrated, and understand why they’re necessary. Clearly articulated and practiced expectations will help you address behavior issues quickly and consistently so you can spend more time working with students to achieve academic goals. But where do you start? Read our guide to creating a rules and consequences system that sticks.

Outline Key Points

When introducing class rules and consequences to your students, first outline the key points that every student should know and understand by the end of the lesson, such as:

1. Classroom rules are important because they establish an environment of respect and academic achievement in our classroom.

2. When we follow rules, we are making good choices about our academic success and our lives. When we do not follow rules, we are making bad choices, and there will be consequences to help you continue on your progress toward your academic goals.

3. Your class rules are ( sample rules detailed below ): be prepared, show respect, be prompt, participate, and be responsible.

4. Your class consequences are ( sample rules detailed below ): a written warning, a teacher-conference warning, a seat move, a behavior/goal reflection with a call home to parent.

Sample rules and what they mean:

• Show respect: Follow classroom procedures and any directions given by the teacher. Listen when the teacher is talking or another student is asking a question. Treat other students as you would like to be treated.
• Be prepared : Come to class with your homework completed and have it out on your desk at the start. Bring a pencil and your binder with blank notebook paper each day. Study for tests and quizzes.
• Be prompt : Arrive early. When class starts you must be in your seat with all of your materials out. Turn in all assignments when they are due
• Participate : Actively contribute when asked or during group work. To ask a question during instruction, raise your hand and wait to be called on.
• Be responsible : Make good choices. You are in charge of your academic success.

Sample consequences:

• First : A written warning on a blue post-it will be placed on a student’s desk.
• Second : An orange post-it will be placed over the blue, and verbal conference with the teacher will take place.
• Third : Student will be moved to the independent desk at the front of the room. This is because the student has demonstrated that he or she needs extra help to meet academic goals that day.
• Fourth : Student will be assigned a take-home behavior reflection sheet, and the student’s parent/guardian will be called so they are aware.

Communicate the What 

Start your lesson by telling students exactly what you plan to do during the practice: that you will spend the next 20 minutes talking about and justifying classroom expectations and consequences, so they understand why you are enforcing them and don’t think that you are just being mean or unfair.

Communicate the Why  

Explain that establishing a culture of respect and academic achievement in the classroom is the only way to reach their goals.

Communicate the How

Spend a few minutes doing a “looks like, sounds like” for your first rule, and then go through and explain each one of the rules and consequences. To ensure the information is accessible to all students, present the rules and consequences verbally as well as visually on poster displays. Consequences also may be acted out to engage all learners. Make time for questions to ensure everyone understands what is expected of them, and randomly call on students throughout to gauge their understanding (for example, “what might ‘be prepared’ mean?” or “what do you need each morning in order to be prepared?”). Finally, at the end of lesson, consider assigning a written project to assess students’ overall understanding.

How else do you establish and communicate a rules and consequences system in your classroom? Tell us in the comments.

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Strict discipline can help students — as long as schools stay flexible

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• Proof Points

The schools that have opened in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina are very diverse, but one thing many have in common is strict rules. This is a big difference from before the storm. Prior to Hurricane Katrina, I attended Dibert Elementary School in New Orleans. Even though I was quite young, I still remember the struggles I faced trying to learn. I often felt bored, not because I didn’t want to learn, but because I learned more quickly than other students. Most teachers weren’t able to control their class. Students were constantly off task, talking really loudly and even playing video games.

When my family moved back to New Orleans after the storm, my mother started to search for a middle school for me to attend. When I enrolled at New Orleans College Prep, the school was starting its second year with just sixth and seventh grades. Right from the beginning, authorities at the school let us know how things were going to run. There was a specific type of belt, undershirt, shoes, and even hair color that we had to wear. If you didn’t have the right attire, the school would supply you with the right clothing item, but you would still get a consequence. The consequence was writing your times tables, one through 14, up to 25 times. If you had tattoos, you would be given something to cover them up; if you refused to do so, you were sent home. There was tape on the floor and we had to walk on it, following a straight line. There were plenty of other rules that just seemed so pointless at the time.

I didn’t realize how the rules could be helpful until I got to high school. My school always said that the reason we had such strict rules was to prepare us for college. During middle school, I didn’t really think that getting into college started with such strict rules. But as I got older, I began to realize that the lifestyle we’re used to in New Orleans is not going to help us succeed in life. I also realized that strict rules can be helpful as long as teachers and administrators are flexible and respond to students’needs.

Growing up in New Orleans, you see and experience certain things that you shouldn’t. Crime and vulgar behavior are very common and actually expected in certain neighborhoods. It’s common for kids to witness shootings around their homes and even schools.

When my school was still in the Sylvanie Williams building, we often saw neighborhood shootings. In my ninth grade English class, I used to sit by the window. One day, I saw two men in a car and another standing in the street with bullets flying between them. I thought to myself, “Oh my gosh I actually just saw that.” This wasn’t even my first time seeing something like that in New Orleans. A few minutes later, I heard police sirens. Over the intercom, our principal announced that the school was on lockdown. Corner stores have been robbed by students so much that the ones near my school ban children from entering them during the school day.

Many children also come from homes that do not necessarily have rules and discipline for the children to follow. As a result, a lot of kids in elementary schools, and even in high school, tend to follow their own rules. The only way to change this is through education.

Student Voices: New Orleans perspectives

This essay is part of a collaboration between The Hechinger Report and high school students at Bard’s Early College in New Orleans . The teenagers wrote opinion pieces on whether all students should be encouraged to attend college, the value of alternative teacher preparation programs such as Teach For America, the importance of desegregation, or the best approach to school discipline.

Currently I am a junior at College Prep; we have changed in a lot of ways since I was in the sixth grade. The rules are not as strict as they used to be since now most kids know what is right and what is wrong. We often have town hall meetings where the students can volunteer new ideas and give the principal feedback on changes that could help improve the school.

Now, College Prep allows us to wear any college gear, such as hoodies and sweaters, and any clothing that has our school symbol on it. We also get to wear any type of shoes as long as they are certain colors. We have more sports and extracurriculars because we’ve explained to the staff and principal that in New Orleans things like football, basketball, and marching bands are very important aspects of our culture.

The rules and rigid discipline have allowed us to grow and change in some positive ways. Certain rules have become habit for me and helped me push myself, which has led to high grades and different academic opportunities.

I haven’t had much experience with other charter schools in New Orleans, but since I’ve started attending Bard Early College, a half day program that allows high school juniors and seniors to take college-level courses, I have been around kids who come from different charter schools. They all feel as though their schools have strict rules that at times get a little out of hand. But in the end, most of us agree that these rules will help us in the future.

Whether discipline structures can be effective depends on how the authorities implement them. You have to meet the kids half way and understand their lifestyle in order to help them. That’s what my charter school is doing currently. They have taken a strict, yet flexible, approach to discipline.

When authorities abuse their powers by being too hard on children and treating schools like the military, students won’t have room to grow. They will always expect someone to tell them what to do and how to do it rather than learning how to control themselves. That approach will not prepare anyone for the real world.

Erin Lockley is a junior at Cohen College Prep in New Orleans.

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This young woman can write. Great work.

Yes , friend ! I’m REALLY proud of you GREAAAAAT job . Your future upholds a lot & I’m going to be here for you every step of the way . Love you & keep up the work .

I agree with Erin that students should have structures in place. However, these structures should be relevant to preparing them for success in the real world.

Nice article. Shows different sides to a complex issue.

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What is the Purpose of School Policies?

Schools and other education settings are complex learning communities, involving many different roles and functions. In order for schools to be safe, supportive environments where students can learn and thrive, there needs to be clear procedures, structures, and expectations in place. Policies are a formal way of documenting the procedures and values of a school. In this article, we will look at the function of school policies, which policies schools should have in place, including statutory school policies, and provide general guidance surrounding writing effective policies. 

Why Do Schools Have Policies and Procedures?

Policies and procedures cover all aspects of school life. They can be written for a variety of audiences, depending on the subject, including students, parents, staff, and governors. Policies ensure that values are applied consistently, define clear expectations, and help provide a framework for employees and students alike. Staff are responsible for familiarising themselves with the school’s policies, and for following the procedures contained within them. 

Key general purposes of school policies include to:

• Create a safe and productive environment for pupils and staff.
• Communicate your schools’ core values and principles clearly to staff, parents, governors, and other bodies (including Ofsted).
• Help staff carry out their duties effectively.
• Help to attract prospective parents, pupils, staff, and governors to your setting.
• Ensure the smooth running of the school – define the school’s rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Ensure a consistent approach in key areas of school life, for example, behaviour.

Types of School Policy

Broadly speaking, school policies come under the following categories:

• Statutory policies. Schools and academies are required by law to have these policies and documents in place.
• Discretionary policies. These are additional policies a school or setting might wish to have in place but are not required by law.
• Curriculum policies. These relate to specific areas of the curriculum. Most of these will be discretionary but some are statutory, such as a relationships and sex education policy.

What Are Statutory Policies?

Certain policies and documents are required to be in place by law. These usually cover major strategic areas, and the specific requirements differ according to the type of educational setting. The Department for Education keeps updated lists of statutory policies for schools and academies. 

List of statutory school policies

Click on the drop downs below to see which statutory policies are required in each area. For each policy, we have included the following information:

• Which types of settings they apply to.
• How often they should be reviewed.
• Who needs to approve and review the policy or document.
• Links to further statutory guidance.

Admission Arrangements Policies and Documents

Admissions policy.

Applies to:

• Local-authority-maintained schools, including maintained special schools and maintained nursery schools.
• Free schools, including university technical colleges and studio schools.
• Voluntary-aided schools and foundation schools directly.
• Community and voluntary-controlled schools – if the local authority formally delegates the responsibility.

Review: The arrangements must be determined annually. Government guidance requires the setting to consult on any changes. Where no changes are made, consultation is required at least every seven years.

Approval:   The full governing body or a committee of the governing body must approve, where the school is its own admissions authority.

Further guidance:

• School Admissions Code  (statutory)
• School Admissions Appeal Code  (statutory)
• Summer Born Children School Admissions  (non-statutory)

Administration and Data Policies and Documents

Charging and remissions.

This applies directly to academies and free schools via their funding agreements. 

Review: Governing bodies can decide how often to review this policy but the DfE recommends an annual review.

Approval:   The governing body can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

• Charging for School Activities  (non-statutory)

Data Protection

• Independent schools, not state-funded.
• Sixth-form colleges.
• Further education colleges with 16 to 19 provision.
• Pupil referral units (PRUs).
• Non-maintained special schools.
• Non-maintained nursery schools.

Under the Data Protection (Charges and Information) Regulations 2018, schools must register with the  Information Commissioner’s Office .

You must adhere to GDPR requirements. 

Review/Approval: Annual registration with the information commissioner’s office is required.

The DfE advises that governing bodies, an individual governor, or headteacher review this requirement annually. 

Protection of biometric information of children in schools and colleges

• Academies including 16 to 19 academies.
• Further education institutions.

Review: The DfE recommends an annual review.

• Protection of Biometric Information of Children in Schools and Colleges  (non-statutory)

Register of pupils’ admission to school and attendance

• Non-maintained nursery schools

Review/Approval: This must be a live document. The governing body can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher. The register itself can be kept by appropriate school staff.

• School Attendance  (non-statutory) (non-statutory)

School information published on a website

• Local-authority-maintained schools, including maintained special schools.

Review: This must be a live document that must be updated as soon as possible after a change, and at least annually. 

Approval: The governing body can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher. 

Further guidance: Details of the information to include on websites:

• What Local-authority-maintained Schools Must Publish Online
• What Academies, Free Schools and Colleges Should Publish Online

School complaints

The DfE also strongly advises academies to consider following the guidance.

Academies should have a written complaints procedure, which is available on request to parents. The DfE recommends that academies publish this online and make it available to anyone who requests it.

Review: Governing bodies can decide how often to review this policy but the DfE recommends an annual review. 

Approval:  The governing body or the proprietor can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

Further guidance: 

• School Complaints Procedures  (non-statutory)
• Setting Up an Academies Complaints Procedure  (non-statutory)

Staffing and Human Resources Policies and Documents

Capability of staff.

• Free schools.

Review: The DfE recommends that governing bodies review this annually. 

Approval:  The governing body of a local-authority-maintained school or management committee can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body or an individual governor. Academies can set their own terms for approval.

• Teacher Appraisal and Capability Model Policy  (non-statutory)
• Staffing and Employment: Advice for Schools  (non-statutory)

Early Career Teachers (ECTs)

Approval:  The governing body must ensure that the school is compliant.

• Induction for Early Career Teachers (ECTs)  (statutory)

Staff Discipline, Conduct and Grievance (Procedures for Addressing)

Review: For local-authority-maintained schools, the governing body is free to decide how often you review. The DfE recommends that governing bodies review this annually. All other establishments may want to include this policy but should refer to general employment law.

Approval:  For local-authority-maintained schools – the governing body must not delegate responsibility for establishing their staff discipline, conduct, or grievance procedures.

For academies – the governing body is free to delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

• Staffing and Employment Advice for Schools  (non-statutory)

Single Central Record of Recruitment and Vetting Checks

This applies to all schools, colleges and further education institutions where early years education is delivered. They are linked to safeguarding policies.

Review:  This is a live document covering staff currently appointed. Schools should also maintain a single central record of pre-employment checks.

Approval: The governing body of a local-authority-maintained school or a management committee of a PRU is generally free to delegate approval to:

• The headteacher.
• One or more governors/members.
• A committee of the governing body/management committee.
• One or more governors/members acting with the headteacher.
• Keeping Children Safe in Education  (statutory)
• Disqualification Under the Childcare Act 2006  (statutory)

Statement of Procedures for Dealing with Allegations of Abuse Against Staff

Teachers’ Pay

Academies and free schools have greater freedoms than maintained schools.

Schools must follow the statutory guidance when making pay award decisions and creating their pay policies.

Review: This must be reviewed annually.

Approval:  The governing body or the local authority will need to approve.

• Teachers’ Pay and Conditions  (statutory)

Pupil Wellbeing and Safeguarding Policies

Accessibility plan.

Review: This should be reviewed every three years.

• Equality Act 2010 Advice for Schools  (non-statutory)

Child Protection Policy and Procedures

Review: This should be reviewed and updated annually as a minimum.

Approval:  The governing body or the proprietor must approve.

The policy should be available publicly on the school or college website, or elsewhere.

Our Hub article,  Creating A Safeguarding Policy , contains a useful template.

Child With Health Needs Who Cannot Attend School

• Where a child is not on the roll of a school.

Review: The DfE recommends that governing bodies review this requirement annually.

Approval:  The governing body must approve.

• Education for Children with Health Needs Who Cannot Attend School  (statutory)

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS)

Those delivering the EYFS are required to have policies and procedures on a range of issues covering safeguarding and welfare.

Schools are not required to have separate policies to cover EYFS requirements where they are already met through an existing policy.

An EYFS profile assessment is required for each child during the academic year they reach the age of 5 (for most children this is the reception year in primary school).

Nursery settings catering for children under the age of three must complete a summary check when a child is aged two.

Review: Review frequency varies. Further details are available in the statutory guidance.

Approval: The governing body can determine approval. 

• Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage  (statutory)

Special Educational Needs and Disability

Review: The SEN information report should be updated annually, and if any changes to the information occur during the year, these should be updated as soon as possible.

Approval: The full governing body or proprietor must approve. 

• SEND Code of Practice: 0 to 25 years  (statutory)

Supporting Pupils with Medical Conditions

• Academies, excluding 16 to 19 academies.

Review: The governing body, proprietor, and management committee can decide how often this is reviewed. However, it should be regularly reviewed and readily accessible to parents and school staff.

• Local-authority-maintained schools – the governing body can approve.
• Academies – proprietors can approve.
• PRUs – the management committee can approve.
• Supporting Pupils at School with Medical Conditions  (statutory)

Relationships Education (Primary) and Relationships and Sex Education (Secondary) Policies

Relationships education (primary) and relationships and sex education (secondary).

• Non-maintained Special Schools.

Review: The governing body can decide how often this is reviewed. The DfE advises that this is reviewed annually.

Approval: The governing body or the proprietor can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

• Relationships Education, Relationships and Sex Education (RSE), and Health Education  (statutory)

Behaviour Policies and Documents

Behaviour in schools.

Review: The headteacher can decide how often this is reviewed. The DfE advises that this is reviewed annually.

Approval: The headteacher can delegate approval for this.

• Behaviour and Discipline in Schools: Guide for Governing Bodies  (statutory)

You may also find our Hub article,  Creating A School Behaviour Management Policy , useful.

Behaviour Principles Written Statement

Academies and free schools have greater freedoms than maintained schools. 

Independent schools must ensure:

• A written behaviour policy is drawn up that sets out the sanctions to be adopted in the event of pupil misbehaviour.
• The policy is implemented effectively.
• A record is kept of the sanctions imposed upon pupils for serious misbehaviour.

Approval: The full governing body or a committee of the governing body must approve this.

School Exclusion

Review: The DfE advises that this is reviewed annually.

• School Exclusion  (statutory)

Facilities Policies and Documents

• Local authorities on behalf of community and voluntary-controlled schools.

Review: The governing body, proprietor, or local authority is free to decide how often it is reviewed. The DfE advises that governing bodies review this requirement annually.

Approval: The employer can determine how to implement and approve.

• Health and Safety Advice for Schools  (non-statutory)

First Aid in Schools

Review: The DfE advises that governing bodies review this requirement annually.

• First Aid in Schools  (non-statutory)

Premises Management Documents

There are many aspects of school premises that require safe management and maintenance such as asbestos, fire safety, and statutory testing. Those with duties for maintaining school buildings should make sure that the policies, procedures, and the condition of the estate are compliant with appropriate legislation, including health and safety.

Independent schools, academies, and free schools have sole responsibility.

For local-authority-maintained schools, both local authorities and schools have responsibilities for the repair and maintenance of premises.

Approval: The governing body can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

• Good Estate Management for Schools  (non-statutory)
• Asbestos Management in Schools  (non-statutory)
• Fire Safety Risk Assessment for Educational Premises  (non-statutory)
• Standards for School Premises  (non-statutory)
• Emergency and Risk Management  (non-statutory)

Governance Policies and Documents

Equality information and objectives (public sector equality duty) statement for publication.

• Pupil referral units (PRU).
• Local authorities on behalf of PRUs.

Review: Under specific duties, governing bodies, local authorities, and proprietors are required to draw up and publish equality objectives every four years and publish information annually. They need to demonstrate how they are meeting the aims of the general public sector equality duty.

Governors’ Allowances (Schemes for Paying)

Academies and free schools have greater freedoms than maintained schools. Although this requirement is not mandatory for academies, the DfE strongly advises academies to consider following the guidance.

Review: For local-authority-maintained schools with a delegated budget, the governing body is free to decide how often schemes for paying governors’ allowances are reviewed. The DfE advises that this is reviewed annually.

(Where schools do not have a delegated budget, the local authority may pay allowances and expenses at a rate determined by them.)

Approval:  The governing body can delegate approval to a committee of the governing body, an individual governor, or the headteacher.

Instrument of Government

• Governance Handbook  (non-statutory)
• Constitution of Governing Bodies of Maintained Schools  (statutory)

Register of Business Interests of Headteachers and Governors

Review: This is a live document that should be updated as soon as possible after a change.

Approval: The governing body can delegate approval subject to the local authority scheme.

• Schemes for Financing Schools  (statutory)
• Constitution of Governing Bodies of Local-authority-maintained Schools  (statutory)

Careers Guidance Policies and Documents

Careers guidance.

• Local-authority-maintained schools.
• Voluntary-aided schools and foundation schools.
• Community and voluntary-controlled schools.

Schools must publish details of their careers programme for young people and their parents. They must also publish a statement setting out their arrangements for provider access.

Review: The DfE advises that governing bodies review these annually.

• Careers Guidance and Access for Education and Training Providers  (statutory)

Sample of School Policies – Discretionary

In addition to the statutory policies, school leaders will want to produce a variety of discretionary policies to cover other areas of school life, including key curriculum areas. 

The full list would depend on the setting, but some common ones include:

• Acceptable Use Policy
• Anti-bullying Policy
• Calculation Policy
• Curriculum Policy
• Educational Visits Policy
• Finance Policy
• Image Use Policy
• Legionella Policy
• Lockdown Policy
• Mobile Phone and Devices Policy
• Online Safety Policy
• Remote Learning Policy
• Risk Management Policy
• Safer Recruitment Policy
• Staff Expenses Policy
• Teaching, Learning, and Assessment Policy

The following Hub articles contain guidance regarding additional  policies:

• What Should a School Allergy Policy Cover?
• How to Write a School Mental Health Policy
• How to Develop a School Bereavement Policy: Free Template
• Child Protection Photography Policy: Free Consent Form Template
• Creating a Safeguarding Policy – Example Template for Schools

Writing School Policies

Policies should be clear, informative, and concise. When writing any policy, you should 

take your audience into account. Ensure that you do not use jargon and remove any ambiguous statements which could be misinterpreted. 

You need to consider how to make your policies accessible. Depending on your setting, this might include providing translated materials, providing paper copies for those without internet or printer access, or making sure you follow good practice with regards to making communications dyslexia friendly, for example.

The actual writing of policies can be delegated to any member of staff – with approval being given in line with the specific requirements for each policy. For example, curriculum policies are often written by those responsible for that area of the curriculum.

For some policies there is a legal requirement for them to be published on the school website, however many schools decide to share all their policies online. This enables parents, and other individuals, such as prospective employees, to easily access the information. Bear in mind that you will need to offer written copies if requested.

A setting may wish to organise policies into handbooks or group policies together (for example PSHE and British Values often sit well together). Separate handbooks can be created for staff, students, parents, etc, each containing the relevant policies and documents.

Reviewing Policies

Some statutory policies have specified review periods, as detailed in the drop downs above, whilst others are reviewed at the discretion of the leadership team. It is good practice to review all policies regularly . Each policy should state when that version was written and the date of the next pending review.

Reviewing policies ensures that the information remains up to date and in line with current legislation. For example, all relevant safeguarding policies should reflect regular changes in key guidance, such as Keeping Children Safe in Education ( our Hub article is updated with key amendments as they are published).

Policies should be accessible, accurate records of a setting’s procedures, values, and expectations. These documents help all members of the school community to work together to create a safe and enriching learning and working environment for all. 

Further Resources:

• Safer Recruitment in Education Course 
• How to Choose A School: The Different Types of School
• Safeguarding Children Guidance
• Health and Safety in Schools: Free Checklist
• Creating a School Behaviour Management Policy
• Conflict in the Classroom: Coaching Children in Acting Responsibly
• School Trip Risk Assessment Template for Teachers

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Her favourite article is Why is Child Development So Important in Early Years?

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Why are Rules Important?

In spite of the saying ‘Rules are made to be broken’, societies do not function without rules. It is true that we often admire people who are mavericks. Perhaps we envy them their willingness to break away from the norm. But rules serve a very useful, indeed essential purpose – they act as guidelines so that we all know what to expect from others, and how to conduct our lives.

Rules set boundaries, something that is essential for children to learn. They have to understand what is acceptable behaviour. But if we demand this of children, we also have to expect that adults continue to follow the rules as much as possible; otherwise we have anarchy. And society cannot function like this. Besides, even the most liberal person would say that some things are unacceptable; without rules, we have an ‘anything goes’ situation where people are going to be hurt and abused.

That said, those rules can change. If they did not, we would still have slavery and women would not have the vote. To a modern eye, it seems inconceivable that it was ever considered acceptable to own another human being and treat them with cruelty. It is thanks to those people who spoke against this abhorrent practice and who were willing to campaign to change the status quo that the law changed. Rules are based on a general consensus, and what the majority find acceptable can change over time. As a society, we have to evolve and improve. So where it was once considered that women did not have equal rights and that people of colour were not equal, now we rightly believe that everyone should have the same rights regardless of their gender or colour.

We also have to consider who makes the rules. Are they fair and realistic? Laws are essentially rules, and they are made by people in positions of power who may act in their own interests more than in the interests of the people they represent. When it comes to the law, people have to be careful that they do not put their liberty at risk. Yet they also have the right to speak out when they consider the laws to be unjust, and lobby for changes. However, laws have to be respected, otherwise there is little point in them existing.

If we wish to change the rules, it is generally better to try to do so in a lawful manner. Other people will not respond if we choose a violent or aggressive path. Indeed, they may become even more deeply entrenched in their opinions. However, if we explain why we feel changes need to be made, and work to persuade people that our opinions are just, then we stand a greater chance of success.

Rules help to organise society. They will vary from one society to another. One country may conduct matters quite differently from another. But the rules of each one help them to function. Those rules may be enshrined in law, or they may be unspoken. They help to protect people. If people choose to break those rules, they should also accept that there may be consequences. But we must always question whether rules are just, and if they need to be changed. What was appropriate for a society 100 years ago may no longer be relevant. If we do not review our rules from time to time, we become stagnant. So although it is important to have rules, they should be subject to change – providing that the vulnerable are protected and nobody else is harmed.

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Why Are Classroom Rules Important? the Importance of Classroom Rules

This article will assist in addressing your concerns if you have been wondering why and how classroom rules are important.

Setting fair and reasonable classroom rules and upholding them are the first steps in ensuring the academic and emotional success of all students. By establishing and enforcing rules with obvious consequences, you can aid your students in comprehending limits and what is expected of them in the classroom.

Please read this blog and try to understand the significance of classroom rules.

Table of Contents

Why Are Classroom Rules Important?

Rules for the classroom in elementary and middle school define expectations. They explain to everyone what is appropriate behavior and why. Fair rules shouldn’t change your classroom’s culture too abruptly, but they should allow space for creativity, personality, and communication.

They safeguard students’ emotional and physical well-being and safeguard their educational experience from offenses or disruptions. It should not feel restrictive to follow rules; rather, it should feel enlightening. Every student should understand and feel that the classroom is a safe space, and rules will help to create that space.

It Promotes Safety

One advantage of having effective classroom rules is that it helps you create a safer class environment for everyone. For students to learn and grow, the classroom serves as a community or setting. For effective teaching and learning, there needs to be a physical and emotional environment.

However, without a system that makes it clear what people can and cannot do, these objectives cannot be fully attained. For instance, a lack of rules may encourage disruptive behavior and/or misbehavior in the classroom. As a result, the environment is less emotionally secure, which makes it harder for the students to learn.

Effective rules also always deter or forbid actions like fighting and participating in risky activities. This helps to keep students from getting hurt physically. Hence, the physical environment becomes a safer place for teaching and learning to occur.

As a result, ensuring everyone’s safety is a key reason I’ll always advise you to set rules for your lessons.

It Produces Responsibility Among Everyone

Students learn responsibility through the existence of rules and their application. Rules instill in everyone a sense of self-awareness and a sense of accountability for their deeds or lack thereof. Knowing that everyone knows the consequences of their actions, whether positive or negative.

In order to be effective, rules must be balanced between the ability to both prevent and respond to inappropriate behavior. Effective rules also discourage students from misbehaving by focusing on alternatives to punishments, such as other consequences.

Students who are responsible always follow the rules and steer clear of prohibited activities. You can teach your students to be responsible people by setting up rules for the classroom.

It Promotes Effective Teaching

In order to effectively instruct students in our classrooms, teachers constantly seek out new opportunities. However, we sometimes struggle to achieve that due to both in-class and out-of-class problems. If we have clear and effective classroom rules, almost all of the issues that hinder our ability to teach effectively can be avoided or minimized. Noise meters can help your class calm down.

Because classroom rules enhance our ability to manage the classroom, this is possible. One of the most important tools for managing classes is the rulebook. This is why educational researchers encourage teachers to establish or establish rules for the classroom at the start of their lessons with the students.

Without classroom rules, our classes will look like jungles where everyone does what he or she wants with no limits. In other words, there won’t be rules or guidelines for classroom behavior. Therefore, we must always consider having clear classroom rules, procedures, and standards to guide the behavior of everyone in our classes.

It Promotes Effective Learning

Teachers can better prepare their classrooms for effective learning by following established rules. A structure or framework must exist where two or more people will interact with one another.

This enables the gathering’s continuation and smooth operation. The framework is aided by rules. The classroom is a social setting. Therefore, there must be rules to guide the attitude and behavior of students. Having that promotes the development of appropriate behaviors in students.

Creating Classroom Rules

Consider the setting for your ideal classroom. Is it mandatory for students to raise their hands before speaking, or are they free to do so whenever they want? Can students move around the room, or should they remain in an assigned seat?

Then, imagine your students’ ideal classroom culture. Where does your own vision meet it? Where does it not? Consider if there are compromises you can make to create a comfortable space for everyone. Shape the structure of your rules using these visions.

Open communication can be established by involving your students in the process of developing the rules for the classroom. More control over their learning environment may give students a sense of empowerment, which may increase their propensity to follow the rules.

They’ll be aware that the laws are just, reasonable, and advantageous to all parties. Students may even approach you with additions or modifications to the rules as the class develops throughout the academic year.

Remember that many students have more than one teacher during the school day, so being consistent with your rules is essential whether you decide to set them yourself or work with your class to do so. Keeping your classroom’s rules closely aligned with those of your school and your fellow teachers will help prevent confusion and disruptions.

How to Teach Classroom Rules?

If you developed the rules for your classroom with the help of your students, a lot of the work involved in explaining and enforcing these rules may have already been done for you.

However, you might still need to lay the groundwork if you were the one who decided on the rules for the classroom. Start by explaining the justification for the rules to your students. Tell them that by adhering to the rules, everyone will feel safe and the learning environment will remain uninterrupted. You can also inquire if anyone has any additional comments or believes that any of the rules are unfair.

Making a visual representation of the rules in your classroom can also be helpful. Even better, try having your students design the visual themselves! On a poster, jot down the rules or have a student do it; then have everyone color the words or sketch illustrations of the rules next to them.

Use this opportunity to involve everyone in the process of setting rules by having each student sign their name at the bottom of the activity as if it were a contract.

From then on, if a rule is broken, you can ask the student/s about the rule and its reasoning. After the appropriate penalties have been applied, you can check to see if the class or the student still believes the rules are fair or if any changes need to be made, along with why.

Although following the rules and their repercussions is crucial, communication is also crucial. Regularly check in with your students to see how they feel about the rules and to see how they are being followed.

Conclusion: The Importance of Classroom Rules

Classroom rules are important because of the following reasons:

• It promotes safety.
• It supports effective instruction.
• It encourages productive learning.
• It results in responsible students.

If possible, involve the students in creating the rules. On the first day of the new school year’s classes, this can be done. Students will have buy-in for why they should abide by the rules if they are given a say in the process.

How Does Classroom Management Affect the Teaching-Learning Process?

It can help create a positive learning environment, prevent disruptive behavior, and set clear expectations for student behavior . Reduced time spent dealing with disruptive behavior in the classroom can also help teachers teach more effectively and efficiently.

What is a Well Managed Classroom?

A well-managed classroom functions according to rules, routines, and consequences . It is essential that these guidelines, procedures, and penalties are both transparent and equitable. The expectations are clear to the students, and they are also aware of inappropriate behaviors.

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Importance of School Rules & Regulations [3 Reasons]

Table of Contents

Importance Of School Rules & Regulations

For students, teachers, and stakeholders, the importance of school rules & regulations may not be on their minds. After all, these are expected policies that are set forth in an institution. But why do we need to discuss the topic? Why is there a need to have a productive conversation about school policies?

An organization or institution is formed because a goal needs to be reached. For businesses, it could be to make a profit and to earn an income. For non-profit organizations, their goal is to help the underprivileged. For schools, it is to provide education to the youth. In order for these goals to be reached, there must be a set of rules, regulations, and policies to be followed.

These policies allow an organization to follow a path that will lead them to their goal. And thus, in areas where children and teens are involved, strict implementation of rules and regulations must be executed to achieve certain goals.

Let’s Discuss The Importance Of School Rules & Regulations To Achieve The Desired Goals

1) to establish standards in the school.

Schools have certain goals when it comes to what they want to achieve with their students. Is it to inculcate Christian values? Or maybe you have a mission of making every student attend college once they graduate from high school? Or maybe you want to produce professional athletes with stellar academic standings?

Whatever your goals are for running a school, your school rules and regulations will provide you with the daily guidelines by which your teachers, students, and everyone involved must operate and behave.

If you are offering higher learning, then your policies will guide you to create a curriculum that will help you achieve this goal.

2) To Provide Safety and Security for Teachers and Students

A survey was done on American teenagers between March to April of 2018, and the poll revealed that over 50% of students were worried about the possibility of gun violence in school.

With the onset of several school shootings across American schools over the years, school rules and regulations in terms of safety and security have become more and more significant today. Implementation of security checks on both the teachers and students is highly important in the modern school setting, as well as restrictions on unnecessary before and after school loitering, which could deter the rise of school violence.

Policies could also prevent the rise of bullying in schools. The National Center for Education Statistics reveals that over 20% of students between grades 6 to 12 have been bullied in school, or while they were on their way to and from school. 

It is also revealed that most students who have been bullied do not report the abuse they suffered from fellow students. School policies could be made to ensure the safety of students by implementing anti-bullying regulations.

3) To Provide Accountability on Both the Students and Teachers

Breaching school rules and regulations must be met with proper disciplinary measures. When the breach impacts the school’s safety or any behavior that goes against school rules occur, students or teachers must face the consequences. Rules and regulations, as mentioned, are put in place to provide order and standards in the school, and any breach can create an imbalance.

Discipline teaches accountability and responsibility in students, as well as on teachers who may not be behaving in ways that adhere to the school’s policies.

For students, it teaches them to realize their mistakes and to own up to them; while accountability teaches educators to improve their profession or manner of implementing their teaching styles.

While guidelines have been in place by State and Federal-based legislation, as well as additional guidelines from the National Safe Schools Framework, studies still show that there is still a lot of work that needs to be done to ensure proper safety and security in schools, adhering to higher learning standards, as well as the disciplinary measures set forth by individual schools.

This is why the importance of school rules and regulations must always be discussed and given attention, which places the students’ best interest in mind. And that is to provide an orderly, productive, and safe environment for them to learn and develop into responsible and law-abiding adults.   

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