Chapter 9 - Policies Procedures and Contracts

Chapter nine deals, in its first section, with contracts as beneficial tools for the education system. Being an organization with numerous components, organizations and individuals all responsible for different groups within the community, it is easy to see why the contract stands out as a useful option. It is customizable, renewable and highly revisable if the proper steps are taken. It also ensures that everyone is either informed of the policies or, with their signature, able to be reminded of them. Without consent, then permission may not be granted for certain actions the contract otherwise allows, giving equal protection.

                From web pages to events to phones in the classroom and everything in between, contracts can help schools relegate what is allowed. Rather than rules of pure convenience, contracts should be designed from the mindset of prevention before action needs to be taken. While many actions can be taken in a school with no intent of misuse or malice, improper governance of those activities can allow accidents or harm when care is not taken. The use of contracts that are effectively circulated and enforced can help greatly in this area.

                The rest of the chapter gives an example of such a contract, dictating the school’s policy on the use of school computers as a resource. This contract clearly lays out what students are and are not allowed to do as well as their rights and lack-there-of while on school computers.

                I really don’t know what to think of this chapter. I have taught Sunday School for some time and have had extended experience with the student groups in our church and its outreach programs, as well as personal experience as a student. After all of this, I can safely say that I understand the importance and necessity of contracts within the school and even within the classroom. What I cannot understand is the point to which I would be responsible for anything other than informing someone that such a contract needed to be made and possible be involved in the outlining process.

                From my experience, contracts inform as to liability and responsibility, which is very helpful for any instance in which someone may either be unaware or have ill intent. I believe that, as a prospective teacher, I am well aware of the necessity of such documents, I just fail to understand how this chapter can be used by me as an instructor. I'm sure this is my own limitation and, again, I am eager to see what others have posted.