School policies and procedures are essential to ensure the safety of students and staff. Policies and procedures help to create a positive learning environment by ensuring that all students and staff are treated fairly, equally, and with respect.
The purpose of having policies and procedures is to ensure that everyone is on the same page and knows what to do in case of an emergency or other unexpected situation.
Policies provide direction for staff members regarding what they should do in specific situations that may arise. For example, if a student becomes disruptive, the teacher will know how to handle the situation. In addition, policies outline what options are available for discipline. The school board has already decided what type of discipline is appropriate for each infraction and outlines this in the student handbook.
Procedures are guidelines that give specific instructions on how to complete certain tasks or duties. For example, if there is a fire drill during class time, teachers will know exactly how to proceed with evacuation procedures. Procedures also include how students should behave in different situations such as when visitors come into the classroom or when a substitute teacher is present in their class.
