PDE Essay

My Philosophy of Student Discipline

As a school counselor, I would base my philosophy of student discipline on positive

reinforcement, support and motivation rather than punishment. Rather than punishing a student, I would

offer disciplinary measures that help, support, and motivate students. Specifically, implementing and

maintaining a positive behavioral interventions and support system at all three levels.

Offering students support and positivity by creating an overall positive academic environment is

key. Recognizing students for both their positive and negative behaviors or achievements is more

effective that only pointing out only negative ones. Creating a systemic environment where positive

student achievements are regularly recognized would lead to more motivated and positive students.

Students who often misbehave or have even just acted out for the first time often have underlying

reasons. Giving these students support rather than punishment could be more effective. Offering the

student a goal to reach rather than a punishment is very important. For example, a student who disrupts

class often can be given a goal related to not disrupting class for a specified amount of days rather than

receiving a punishment. This could be: If you do not disrupt class or have any other infractions for x

amount of day’s you will receive a “lunch party”, other incentive or token economy based system.

Often blame is placed solely onto students for whatever issue is at hand, however there are often

underlying issues going on that may have led to this outcome. Students are fare faced with problems

every day that are completely out of their control. Punishing a student who had no control over their

misbehavior, missed assignment, or tardiness may lead to more negative emotions and outcomes to

follow. Although, advocating for these students if possible is much more positive and supportive.

Creating a positive systemic environment for students, as well as offering support and motivation

is the basis of my philosophy of student discipline. A positive, motivational, and supportive systemic

environment involving a PBIS system, will create positive, motivated, and hopefully successful students.