Positive School Environment

Positive Behavioral Intervention & Supports (PBIS)

St. Joseph School follows the positive reinforcement plan set by the Maryland PBIS Team. PBIS is the Positive Behavior Intervention System. The program places the focus on acknowledging the positive behavior that students are exhibiting in the classroom. We encourage this each day on the morning announcements, as well a frequently throughout the year as recognition is given.

Our motto, directly connects to our Mascot, states that we are “All Part of the

P.A.C.K.” in that each day we:

  • Pray
  • Accept Responsibility
  • Cooperate
  • Keep Trying

The Archdiocesan Bullying Prevention, Intervention & Response Policy

Bullying, harassment, or intimidation of any student on school property or at school-sponsored functions or by the use of electronic technology is prohibited in all Archdiocese of Baltimore Schools. Such behaviors are contrary to school life in a Christ-centered community, which respects the dignity and uniqueness of all of God's children. To foster a school environment where all students are educated in a safe and caring atmosphere, all Archdiocesan schools will follow established procedures for prevention and intervention.

Bullying, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation against anyone who has reported these behaviors is prohibited. Students engaging in these behaviors on school property, at school-related activities, off school property or after school hours when the behavior threatens or is likely to substantially disrupt or adversely affect the school-related environment for students or significantly impacts the interest of students or the school community are subject to disciplinary and/or legal action.

Students, parents, employees, and service providers are responsible for reporting incidents of bullying, harassment, intimidation, or retaliation. A standardized reporting form is available on the AOB website and from the School Office. School principals will ensure that all illegal behaviors are reported to the appropriate local authorities and the Superintendent of Catholic Schools immediately.

As used in this policy, "bullying, harassment, or intimidation" means intentional conduct, including verbal, physical, or written conduct or an intentional electronic communication that creates a hostile educational environment by substantially interfering with a student's educational benefits, opportunities, or performance, or with a student's physical or psychological well-being and is:

  • motivated by an actual or a perceived personal characteristic including race, national origin, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, ancestry, physical attributes, socioeconomic status, familial status, or physical or mental ability or disability; or,
  • threatening or seriously intimidating; and,
  • occurs on school property, at a school activity or event, or on a school bus; 
  • substantially disrupts the orderly operation of a school.