NSU University School Faculty, Staff and Employee Handbook

42 the use of such reasonable force by a teacher or principal as may be necessary to protect himself or other students from disruptive students. The administration of corporal punishment at NSU University School is strictly prohibited. The school has implemented comprehensive programs for the alternative control of discipline. These programs include, but are not limited to, counseling, timeout rooms, in-school suspension, student mediation and conflict resolution, parental involvement, and other forms of positive reinforcement. Use of rulers, paddles, or other instruments to administer corporal punishment is prohibited. Restraining force may only be applied in order to prevent a student from injuring himself or others. Force used beyond restraining force is not allowed. All verbal interactions between employees and children are expected to be respectful and responsible. It is appropriate to provide verbal positive encouragement, reinforcement and specific academic praise. Inappropriate verbal interactions include name calling of any kind, distasteful jokes, discussion of personal behaviors or conduct, sharing of sexual experiences, discussion of personal problems, issues and needs, telling secrets, cursing, shaming, belittling, embarrassing, making derogatory remarks, using harsh language and tones that might frighten or threaten or humiliate children. NSU University School utilizes positive reinforcement as a means to manage student conduct. The following are unacceptable and inappropriate forms of behavior management practice: 1. hitting, spanking, slapping 2. shaking, physical exercise as a consequence, hair and ear pulling 3. biting, pinching or shoving 4. shaming, making derogatory remarks 5. ostracism, restraint 6. punishment as a result of toileting accident Any violations of the above will be reported to Nova Alert, and the Department of Children and Families and will result in immediate dismissal. HANDLING DEATH OF STUDENT, PARENT, OR FACULTY/STAFF MEMBER NOTIFICATION 1. Notify the School Crisis Management Team and Develop a Plan: Consider activating the school crisis management team. If initial notification occurs outside of school hours, this may require initiating the phone tree to notify the school staff and to invite them to meet before school to organize a unified plan and to brief school staff. If notification occurs during school hours, this may require the distribution of a written statement or a staff meeting. 2. Notify Teachers and Staff First: Meet before school with teachers and staff to discuss what is known about the death. This gives teachers an opportunity to ask any questions they wish and to prepare themselves before they see their students in class. If a teacher does not feel able to talk to his/her students about the death, a member of the crisis team should be available to step in or assist with the notification.