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RESOLUTION OF ISSUES POLICY
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PREAMBLE
As a community of Christians we should seek to consider every aspect of our relationships in the light of the Word of God. Let us remind ourselves that our school community is a body, made up of many parts, as Paul illustrates in 1 Corinthians 12.
Scripture recognises the fact that there will be divisions, dissensions and disputes even among Christians living in a fallen world. This is clearly illustrated in the Corinthian church, for example in 1 Corinthians 1:10 and following. This of course does not excuse us for sinful behaviour and we are to strive to “live in harmony with each other, making every effort to live in peace with all men”. Hebrews 12:14.
We are not to be quarrelsome people, instead the Bible teaches us that, where necessary, we are to approach our opponents with a spirit of gentleness, remembering that quarrelling only causes disunity within the body. See 2 Timothy 2:22-26.
Paul’s words in Philippians 2 stand as a constant reminder that we are to have the same mind in our relationships as that of Christ Jesus, who humbled himself, even to death on the cross, the person who considers others better than himself (verse 3) and looks after one anothers interests (verse 4) is not likely to be factious and argumentative.
Nevertheless, there may arise differences which call for clarification. In Matthew 18:15-17 Jesus directs us to speak first to a fellow Christian with whom we are in disagreement. Within our school community we should always seek to speak directly to any person with whom we have a difference, then if necessary, take the matter to the appropriate member of the school community who may be able to assist in resolving the concern.
The following procedure will be helpful in dealing with such matters, remembering, that the principles of Christian grace and forbearance should apply at every step along the way.
Aim
Within the school community, it is our desire that all authority is maintained and that we actively promote mutual respect, harmony and Christian unity. This Policy seeks to identify areas of potential conflict and to give guidance as to the procedures for handling them.
Who’s Responsible?
1. Constitution Articles 10—13 state the Board, as the elected representative of the Association, is responsible for:¬
a. Setting the school policy
b. The administration of the school, including the financial structure, appointment of staff, enrolment of pupils
c. Provision and maintenance of all school buildings and equipment.
2. The Board appoints the Principal of each campus to be responsible for:-
a. Implementing school policy which directly concerns teaching matters and children attending the school
b. The day to day administration of the educational responsibilities (which includes supervision of teachers, curriculum and students)
c. The communication with parents concerning any matter of an educational nature.
3. The Board appoints the Business Manager to be responsible for:-
a. Implementing non-educational policies (i.e. finance, building, administration office)
b. To communicate with parents on non-educational administration matters
c. To liaise with government bodies and to keep the Board familiar with current requirements.
4. The Board appoints Teachers to be responsible for:-
a. Teaching and nurturing our children whilst they are at school
b. Implementing policies applicable to the classroom situation
Settling Disputes
When settling a dispute we need to identify the particular problem area and then using the “Who’s Responsible” guide-line approach the appropriate person/s, either by direct personal contact or by confidential note in a sealed envelope.
Who do we go to for a particular issue?
Policy Matters
1. If you want to clarify a policy on Educational matters then speak with the Principal
2. If you want to clarify a policy on Administration then speak with the Business Manager
If these avenues do not clarify the query then you can write to the Chairman of the Board.
General School Issues
If the issue deals with the playground, bus, uniform, sport, etc. then arrange to speak with the Principal or Deputy Principal. If you are not satisfied then you can write to the Chairman of the Board.
Classroom Issues
If you feel your child has been unjustly disciplined, or for any other classroom query then speak to the teacher as soon as possible to clarify the situation. Then and only then, if the issue is not resolved make an appointment to see the Coordinator, Deputy Principal, then if necessary, the Principal.
If these avenues do not clarify the query then you can write to the Chairman of the Board.
Administration Issues
Fees etc. speak with the Business Manager. If this avenue does not clarify the query then you can write to the Chairman of the Board.
Disputes Between Members
Disputes between members are not a responsibility of the school. However if the dispute is affecting the school then write to the Chairman of the Board.
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