A Contract for Responsibility

In Front of the Class

by Linda Starr, Education World©

Students, teachers, and parents all have a responsibility to contribute to the effort to establish an effective climate for learning for students. The following is an example of a contract, to be signed by a student and his or her teacher(s) and parent(s), that spells out the responsibilities of each member in that effort.

As a parent/guardian, I will:

• Show respect and support for my child, the teachers, and the school.
• Support the school's discipline policy.
• Provide a quiet, well-lit place for study and supervise the completion of homework.
• Attend parent-teacher conferences.
• Talk with my child each day about his or her school activities.
• Monitor my child's TV viewing.
• Assist with at least one school or classroom activity.
• Read with my child for at least 10 minutes each day and let my child see me read.

As a student, I will:

• Always try to do my best work.
• Be kind and helpful to my classmates.
• Show respect for myself, my school, and other people.
• Obey classroom, school, and bus rules.
• Show respect for property by not stealing or vandalizing.
• Come to school prepared with my homework and my supplies.
• Believe that I can and will learn.
• Spend at least 15 minutes each day studying or reading at home.
• Talk with my parents each day about my school activities.

As a teacher, I will:

• Show respect for each child and for his or her family.
• Make efficient use of learning time.
• Provide a safe and comfortable environment that's conducive to learning.
• Help each child grow to his or her fullest potential.
• Provide meaningful and appropriate homework activities.
• Provide necessary assistance to parents so they can help with assignments.
• Enforce school and classroom rules fairly and consistently.
• Supply students and parents with clear evaluations of progress and achievement.
• Use special activities in the classroom to make learning enjoyable.
• Demonstrate professional behavior and a positive attitude.

Now, hand in hand, we will work together to carry out this contract.

Signed:

Parent signature/date

Student signature/date

Teacher signature/date

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