Often when we hear or talk about discipline and behaviour, it is connected to negative thoughts or actions. The words in itself, however, are not only negative. Although the word “discipline” originates from Latin and it is connected to “disciplining”, in other words correcting and punishment, we use “self-discipline” and “disciplined” as well as the noun “disciplines” in a positive context.
The word “behaviour” from the Late Middle English word “behavoure meant "to have possession," which seemingly refers to a person in control of his or her actions.” (https://www.vocabulary.com/dictionary)
Both words do therefore not necessarily need to be connected to negative actions and, in fact, can be associated with positive outcomes. There is more to these two terms than only a negative context.
In light of our purpose as a learning institution, behaviour and discipline are centrally situated attributes. We teach different disciplines in the different subjects we teach. As members of a community, we are sometimes guided by self-discipline, “the ability to make yourself do things you know you should do even when you do not want to” (https://dictionary.cambridge.org/dictionary/english).
When we therefore call out behaviour and discipline in our actions, then this is often to redirect a person’s actions to be in line with what is good for the community at large. In order for society and a community to be able to function, behaviour and discipline needs to follow certain rules of engagement that takes into consideration the greater good of society or the community.
In our WIS Principles and the WIS Mission and Vision, behaviour and discipline is inherently present. We have to take ownership of our actions and People and Purpose guide our behaviour and the way we use self-discipline to respect and understand others who are not necessarily like us and who sometimes have different beliefs to ours. “We believe that learners develop the dispositions of excellence when they are surrounded by a community which models, sets, and keeps high expectations. We believe that all people already possess within themselves all the ability and compassion that is necessary to make a positive difference in our world. It is our collective and individual responsibility to set high expectations for ourselves and to model these characteristics for others.” (WIS Principle of Excellence) This principle requires our behaviour and self-discipline to take into consideration others, but also to be the very best each of us can be in the interest of ourselves as well as the people around us and society at large.
Maggie Reiff
Secondary Principal