Behavioral Expectations
Student Behavior and Discipline at BBMS
Aligned with New York City Department of Education Guidelines
At the Bilingual Bicultural Mini School (BBMS), we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. We believe that discipline is an opportunity for learning, growth, and community building. Our approach is grounded in restorative practices and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) to help students develop the skills needed to make responsible and positive choices.
Schoolwide Expectations
All students are expected to:
- Treat others with respect, demonstrating kindness and empathy
- Follow adult directions responsibly and promptly
- Demonstrate safe behavior in all areas of the school
- Use appropriate and respectful language
- Care for school property and shared spaces
- Participate positively in learning and contribute to the classroom community
Progressive Discipline Approach
BBMS uses a progressive, tiered approach to discipline that emphasizes teaching positive behaviors, repairing harm, and supporting student success.
Tier 1: Classroom-Based Supports (All Students)
- Clear expectations and classroom reminders
- Teacher-student conferences
- Reflection activities
- Restorative conversations
- Positive reinforcement
Tier 2: Targeted Supports (Some Students)
- Family conferences
- Behavior contracts
- Check-in/check-out systems
- Small-group counseling
- Targeted behavior interventions
Tier 3: Intensive Supports (Few Students)
- Individualized behavior plans
- Functional Behavior Assessments (FBA)
- Counseling services
- Community-based supports such as counseling at the on-site Mount Sinai clinic
- School leadership interventions
All interventions are designed to be supportive, developmentally appropriate, and responsive to individual student needs.
Restorative Practices
Restorative practices are central to how we support student behavior at BBMS. These practices focus on building relationships, repairing harm, and strengthening our school community.
Students are supported in:
- Repairing harm and taking responsibility
- Restoring relationships with peers and adults
- Reflecting on their actions and their impact
- Developing problem-solving and conflict resolution skills
- Reintegrating positively into the school community
Restorative Strategies Include:
- Peer mediation
- Restorative circles
- Reflection conferences
- Community-building activities
Behaviors Requiring Administrative Support
While most behaviors are addressed through classroom and restorative supports, some situations may require additional involvement from school leadership to ensure safety. This can include incidences of repeated disruption of learning, bullying, physical aggression, or other serious safety concerns.
Administrative decisions are made based on:
- The student’s age and developmental level
- The severity of the behavior
- The frequency of incidents
- The individual needs of the student
- The safety of the school community
Family Communication and Partnership
BBMS values strong partnerships with families. We are committed to clear and timely communication regarding student behavior.
Families will be notified of significant concerns through:
- Phone calls
- Written notices
- Family conferences
- School-based meetings
We encourage families to work collaboratively with school staff to support student growth and success.
Anti-Bullying Policy
BBMS is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students. Bullying, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination are not tolerated.
All incidents are investigated in accordance with New York City Department of Education policies, including the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA).
Students are encouraged to report concerns to a trusted adult so that the school can respond promptly and provide appropriate support.