Discipline with Purpose

The first purpose of education is to assist the child to learn self-discipline. In 2003, St. Matthew’s implemented a comprehensive program to help students do just that.

Discipline with Purpose (DWP) takes a holistic yet concrete approach to discipline that involves the student, teacher and family. The school communicates clear expectations for student behavior and will enforce a discipline code that is conducive to learning. All teachers have been trained in DWP and receive continuing education to maintain their effectiveness. DWP also requires teachers to maintain close contact with parents using weekly updates.

DWP is based on 15 life skills that are taught and reinforced beginning in Kindergarten. As students move through the grade levels they are encouraged to use these skills to solve interpersonal conflicts and conduct themselves properly in the school environment. The life skills include:

1. Listening
2. Following instructions
3. Questioning
4. Sharing time, space, people &things
5. Interacting socially
6. Cooperating with others
7. Understanding Rules
8. Accomplishing a task
9. Exhibiting leadership
10. Communicating effectively
11. Organizing time
12. Resolving mutual problems
13. Taking the initiative in problem solving
14. Distinguishing fact from feeling
15. Sacrificing from a motive of love