I enjoy teaching in an environment where everyone feels comfortable.  I believe this is best achieved when students and staff respect the needs and opinions of each other.  I attempt to create a relaxed atmosphere and allow students possibly more flexibility and privileges than afforded in other classes.  However, I understand the risk of such freedom and therefore take any disrespect and abuse as a personal insult, punished by a severe tightening of the reins.  I hope students will enjoy their privileges and not ruin the opportunity to be treated as they often request to be treated.  

STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

Organizational Suggestions

• 3-Ring Binder with 5 dividers 
• College Ruled Paper
• Pen or pencil
• Text book

Class Rules

• RESPECT.  All rules originate with this very basic but most important principle.  I will treat all students with respect and expect the same in return. 

• Must be on time.  The door to the classroom will be closed 10 seconds after the bell rings.  If you are not inside, you must wait QUIETLY outside until I am ready to let you in.  Upon entering late, you will then sign the clipboard by the door and will be given a random assignment.  If the assignment is completed and handed in at the start of the next class, your lateness will be excused.  Otherwise, further action may be taken.

• Students will enter the room and be seated.  Students will enter and be seated.  There will often be warm-ups or other assignments on the board that will be checked a few minutes into the period.  If this request is respected, I will often give time at the end of class for socializing.

• No work may be turned in late.  All work must be submitted on the date it is due.  I will offer opportunities in the marking period to turn in late work for a penalty.  However, I give very little warning of these “Amnesty Days” so I recommend you complete the work and hold it until I make the announcement.

• All assignments must have the following information written at the top or it will not be graded: Name, Date, and Period.

• Students may not line up at the door.  At the end of class, students are to remain seated until dismissed and especially must not line up at the door.

• Hands to self.  Students are not to touch any items that do not belong to them without first getting the teacher’s permission.  This includes my desk and all living organisms. 

Disciplinary Actions

I do not necessarily follow a procedure for disciplinary action.  Each violation and a past history of violations will dictate an individual response.  However, the following are some of the choices I have should you choose to disobey the rules.

·  Verbal Warning

·  Detention (before or after school, even weekends)

·  Removal of student to hallway to complete a special assignment

·  Special homework assignments

·  Note home to parent

·  Parent phone call (may be made immediately from class)

·  Administrative Referral (last resort – I do not like to involve administration until absolutely necessary)

Keep in mind that all school rules apply as stated in the student handbook. While my rules are variations of those rules, when in doubt the school rules will apply.  For example, despite my lateness policy, if you are caught in a sweep then any punishment the administration assigns shall supersede my policies.  

Pennsauken High School

Science Department

800 Hylton Road

Pennsauken, NJ 08110

Last Updated:  10/02/06