How do you deal with bad attitudes?

[Lucas Hilty]

A visitor to The Dock wrote, “How do you deal with bad attitudes in Grade 7?”

[Jonas Sauder]

First, identify and clarify the symptoms, such as…

1. Careless work habits
2. Reckless use of school property
3. Chronic complaining/criticizing about school work, games at recess, school policies…
4. Disrespectful attitudes toward others: criticism, bullying, mocking

Next, determine whether the problem is a general group attitude or whether it’s caused by one or two influential students.
Address the problem at the “lowest” level first, such as…

1. Work with the one or two individuals that are at the root. Solicit the help of their parents.
2. Address the class as a whole, name the problem, and describe the standards you expect. Let them know when they reach your expectations.
3. Discuss the issue with the administration/school board and have them determine a course of action. Report ongoing results to them.
4. It may be necessary to have the board call a meeting of all parents of students involved to outline the issue and request their support and cooperation in resolving the issue.

Through the whole endeavor, be sure to maintain a good, prayerful attitude yourself!

[Author]

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