251 Policies Help Define Rules Regulations

2.5.1 Policies help define rules, regulations, procedures and protocols for schools. All of these are necessary to help a school run smoothly and safely and ensure that students receive a quality education.

Introduction

Schools have policies for several reasons. Policies establish rules and regulations to guide acceptable behaviour and ensure that the school environment is safe for students, teachers and school staff. School policies also help create a productive learning environment.

Rules and Regulations

In order for rules and regulations to be in place and enforced, policies are created, often by the local school board. Having these policies in place means there are determined procedures for how school operations are handled, down to every minute detail, so that educators, staff and students know what is expected and can act accordingly. This saves time, prevents confusion and unifies the school.

Safe Learning Environments

Students, teachers and staff members deserve to feel physically and psychologically secure in their environment. In order to create this environment, policies are created and instated that establish safety standards for the physical environment and mental state of students and staff. This is done by creating policies such as fire drills, anti-bullying policies and mental health guidelines.

Setting Goals and Establishing Productivity

In order for an institution to encourage higher learning, policies must be in place that establishes goals as set forth by the school board. These policies establish standards and help hold schools and educators accountable to the public. This is important for relating education to the community and making it responsible to the larger world. Accountability through the use of goal-oriented policies ensures that students are receiving a valuable education.

Conclusion

Policies are important because they help a school establish rules and procedures and create standards of quality for learning and safety, as well as expectations and accountability. Without these, schools would lack the structure and function necessary to provide the educational needs of students. Ultimately, policies are necessary to the success and safety of a school.