Early in the year many Explorer teachers work with students to develop a contract that is posted in the classroom that outlines the expectations for behaviors and attitudes that will allow for a productive year of learning. Some teachers introduce this lesson with a code of conduct that they have created for themselves. This document may look something like:

I am a teacher who:
Works hard to make learning interesting.
Knows and understands my students’ needs.
Gives students feedback about their work.
Is polite and kind.
Uses a calm and quiet voice when speaking to my students.
Reads to my students every day.

After brainstorming with the class about what they expect of themselves and each other, the teacher helps the students create a contract.
Behaviors and attitudes are all phrased in the positive.

We Are A Class Who:
Works hard to learn
Treats each other with respect
Cares about every person in the class
Helps each other
Keeps our classroom and school neat and cared for
Is excited about our accomplishments
Makes sure everyone contributes and participates

When Explorer moved into its permanent site after years of effort, each class contributed a line to the following school wide contract, which was read by students at the first all-school gathering in our new home: [PDF version

We Are A School Who:
Values friendships and learns lessons for life.
Treats each other with honesty.
Accepts people for who they are.
Never gives up.
Who has hopes, dreams, and goals.
Respects people’s feelings.
All get along.
Stays together.
Cares about each other.
Respects our friends’ opinions.
Says “Nice Try” when someone gets out at Four Square.
Loves our teachers
Respects others’ things.
Works hard.