Breadcrumb

Community Values

PHILOSOPHY

Norwood-Fontbonne Academy’s approach to student discipline is rooted in the charism of the Sisters of Saint Joseph: to live and work so that all people may be united with God and with one another. Inspired by the Gospel imperative of active, inclusive love, our approach to discipline is centered on fostering a community where every student feels valued, respected, and loved. This philosophy is embedded in our mission to address the urgent needs of our community and to serve all, without distinction.

CORE PRINCIPLES

  1. Inclusive Love: Discipline practices are grounded in believing that every child deserves love and respect, regardless of their background or behavior.
     
  2. Union with God and Others: Encouraging behaviors promoting unity and reconciliation reflects the school's commitment to fostering a sense of community.
     
  3. Joyful and Courageous Witness: Emphasizing positive reinforcement and encouragement to cultivate an environment where students are joyful and confident in their abilities to make good choices.
     
  4. Active Service and Advocacy: Encouraging students to understand the impact of their actions on the community and to take responsibility for promoting justice and kindness.
     
  5. Holistic Growth: Supporting the spiritual, emotional, and social development of each student, recognizing that discipline is part of their overall growth and formation.

Schoolwide Proactive Strategies

Restorative Practices & Community Building:

  • Morning Meeting: daily morning meetings to build classroom community, resolve conflicts, and give students a voice in discussing concerns.
     

  • Restorative Conferences: Facilitated meetings involving students who have caused harm, those affected, and a mediator to discuss the impact of the behavior and agree on how to repair the harm.

Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports:

  • Recognition Programs: Celebrating students who demonstrate acts of kindness, responsibility, and respect.
     

  • Clear Expectations: Defining and teaching expected behaviors in various settings (classroom, playground, cafeteria).

Proactive Measures:

  • Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Providing opportunities for students to develop skills in self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making.
     
  • Individual and Group Counseling: These opportunities support the emotional and social well-being of our students. These counseling services are designed to help students navigate challenges, build healthy relationships, and make choices aligned with our values.

Responsive Measures:

  • Reflective Time: Offering a space for students to reflect on their behavior and its impact, guided by prompts that encourage self-awareness and accountability.

Collaborative Engagement:

  • Parent Partnership: Engaging parents as partners in the discipline process, ensuring consistent messages and support between home and school.
     

  • Staff Development: Providing ongoing training for teachers and staff on effective, compassionate discipline strategies aligned with the school's mission and values.

Spiritual Integration:

  • Prayer and Reflection: Incorporating prayer and moments of reflection to help students connect their behavior with their faith and the call to love and serve others.
     

  • Service Opportunities: Encouraging students to participate in service projects that reinforce the value of helping others and the community.

By embracing these principles and practices, our school aims to create a nurturing environment where students are guided by the spirit of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, learning to live in harmony with God, each other, and the world around them.

Student Vision Statement

At Norwood-Fontbonne Academy, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and nurturing environment where every student can thrive. The Norwood-Fontbonne Academy student enjoys learning, treasures self, others, and the earth, lives Gospel values, and makes reflective choices as a self-directed person. In alignment with our vision statement, we expect all students to adhere to the following code of conduct.

We take a holistic approach to student behavior based on the beautiful mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph: We live and work so that all people may be united with God and with one another. A large part of our approach to student discipline is grounded in student reflection, staying true to the mission of the Sisters of Saint Joseph, and faithful to their charism. Our students learn how to move through the world and leave each room more united than they entered it.

By adhering to this code of conduct, students at Norwood-Fontbonne Academy will not only support their growth but also contribute to a positive and nurturing school environment for all. Together, we can create a community where learning is joyful, respect is paramount, and values guide our actions.