There are many factors which contribute to excellence in education. Among the most prominent of these factors is the development of a school environment which reflects order and discipline.

Discipline is achieved when learning is valued and teachers are respected; disruptive behavior is dealt with firmly, fairly and quickly; students are expected at attend classes and complete assignments; high academic standards are expected to be met; and when learning entails effort, hard work, and sacrifice.

To maintain this kind of discipline, cooperation is needed from all elements of society, especially parents. By supporting and enhancing discipline in the school, parents foster a situation in which teachers can spend their time engaged in the process of teaching rather than consuming valuable time dealing with disruptive behavior and poor learning attitudes.

The following are suggestions for parents as to what they can do to promote better discipline in the schools:

Become knowledgeable of the behavior policy of your child's school. What conduct is expected in the classroom on the school grounds? What procedure is followed when problems do arise?

Instill in your child a sense of responsibility for what he/she says and does. Children should realize that disruption and disorder in the classroom undermines the educational effort and hurts everyone.

Encourage respect for authority.

Create an atmosphere where your child feels secure about discussing school related concerns and problems. Discuss their concerns and problems with your child's teacher or administrator.

    Review your own attitude toward discipline. If parents don't consistently enforce reasonable and firm rules, then perhaps it is too much to expect such discipline within the schools.

Most importantly, parents must be a model of respect for the learning process. A key to the attainment of excellence in education is the rededication to learning within the home.