Students

Behavioral ExpectationsExpectativas de comportamiento

Student Behavior and Discipline at BBMS · Aligned with New York City Department of Education Guidelines

Our approach

Discipline as an opportunity to learn

At the Bilingual Bicultural Mini School (BBMS), we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment. We view discipline as an opportunity for learning, growth, and community building, and we ground our approach in restorative practices and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).

Vemos la disciplina como una oportunidad para aprender, crecer y construir comunidad.

Schoolwide expectations

All students are expected to

  1. 01Treat others with respect, demonstrating kindness and empathy
  2. 02Follow adult directions responsibly and promptly
  3. 03Demonstrate safe behavior in all areas of the school
  4. 04Use appropriate and respectful language
  5. 05Care for school property and shared spaces
  6. 06Participate positively in learning and contribute to the classroom community

Progressive discipline

A tiered 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

Building relationships, repairing harm

Restorative practices are central to how the school supports student behavior. These practices focus on building relationships, repairing harm, and strengthening the 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

School leadership

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 partnership

Family communicationComunicación con las familias

BBMS values strong partnerships with families and is 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

The school encourages families to work collaboratively with staff to support student growth and success. To reach the school, call (212) 860-6031 or use Contact Us.

Anti-bullying policy

Bullying, harassment, intimidation, and discrimination are not tolerated

BBMS is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive environment for all students. All incidents are investigated in accordance with NYC Department of Education policies, including the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA).

Students are encouraged to report concerns to a trusted adult so the school can respond promptly and provide appropriate support.

Se anima a los estudiantes a informar cualquier preocupación a un adulto de confianza.

Student & family resourcesAbout BBMS