Superintendent of Public Instruction, Tom Horne has stressed the importance of classroom discipline as a necessary precondition to academic excellence. Discipline is defined as the steps or actions taken by teachers and the administration to enhance student safety, behavior and academic achievement.

"First, we must restore classroom discipline. When teachers are not supported in disciplining disruptive students, some teachers tend to give up. That has lead to anarchy in some public schools across the country. Other teachers keep trying, but valuable time is diverted from teaching the students who want to learn. Restoring classroom discipline is a necessary precondition to creating a learning atmosphere, to facilitate academic excellence."

At the state level, we are clear in our efforts to maintain positive classroom climates so that all students may learn. Respectful and responsible behavior are the essential tools (expected from every student on a school campus) that enhance academic and personal achievement.

Superintendent Horne is of the belief that success of our students' academic and personal development is highly dependent on the teamwork of parents and the school.

Students with discipline, responsible attitudes, and virtues will increase their skills in problem-solving, healthy relationships, a sense of self-worth, and the ability to set goals. Through the efforts of Superintendent Tom Horne's Arizona discipline Initiative, Arizona students will improve in their academic achievement and social/emotional competence, while reducing risky behaviors and involvement in violence. This is proactive approach to developing our students into pillars of society to become tomorrow's leaders. Educators across the state are extremely pleased that Superintendent Horne has recognized the need to focus on student behavior.

Superintendent's Articles

 

Contact Information

Dr. Ann Hart
Deputy Associate Superintendent of
State-wide Discipline Initiative Section
Arizona Department of Education
1535 West Jefferson Street, Bin #27
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Voice: 602.364.1971
Fax: 602-542-2050
DisciplineInitiative@azed.gov