Classroom Rules Explained
Note: Listed in bold are the five general rules posted in the third-grade classroom for the year. Next to each rule is a more detailed explanation for parents. These rules were also explained to the students at the beginning of the school year.
1. Be Christ-like. This should be more than simply a class rule, but a way of life. We are called to live as Jesus taught us. It is never acceptable to act unkindly toward any person for any reason.
2. Do your homework. Each student is responsible for completing all homework assignments carefully and on time. Homework includes not only written assignments, but will sometimes involve reading, studying for tests, or working on other projects. In order to succeed in third grade, a student must take pride in doing all homework and doing it well.
3. Keep quiet in the halls. When taking a class bathroom break or when walking through the school building for any other reason, each student is expected to remain silent. No talking, giggling, or horseplay is allowed. This is especially important in that the third-graders are counted on to set a positive example for the younger children on the first floor.
4. Keep your area clean. Wherever students go throughout the school day (lunchroom, bathrooms, specials rooms, Mass, etc.), they are expected to leave all areas as they found them. For example, students should take pride in keeping the area around their desks free of clutter, cleaning up after themselves in the lunchroom, not leaving a mess when washing their hands, and replacing hymnals properly during Mass.
5. Listen respectfully. Each student is expected to listen to all adults and fellow students who are speaking to him/her. This rule includes following instructions from all teachers and other authority figures at all times, including specials, lunch, and recess. It also includes speaking only when called on during class, so that all students get a fair chance to contribute to a discussion. Finally, this rule includes being respectful of what the student’s classmates say, whether in class discussions, small group activities, or during play.