Behavior Expectations

Restorative Justice Practices

• At Hillcrest we believe restorative justice (RJ) supports behavioral growth. When conflict occurs, we generally lead with RJ because of its focus on repairing harm and seeking lasting change. RJ emphasizes listening and healing, promotes accountability (making it right), and focuses on finding solutions that are tailored to the situation rather than doling out random consequences. 
•  When we engage students in restorative justice, we often ask these questions:
  • What happened?
  • What were you thinking or feeling at the time?
  • Who has been affected or harmed by what happened? How have they been affected?
  • How do you feel about it now?
  • What do you think needs to be done to make things as right as possible?

More information about Restorative Justice principles are available on the OUSD website here.

Discipline

• Serious or repeated issues may result in office referrals, mediation, or suspension. Oftentimes discipline happens in tandem with restorative justice (ex: Student RJ circle plus referral and phone call home.)
• Most behavioral issues will be documented as an internal referral; however, serious incidents such as physical fights, use of weapons, drugs, or harassment of protected groups, will be documented as an external referral on Aeries. 
• Hillcrest will be following OUSD’s student discipline and intervention guidance.

Bullying

• The California Department of Education defines bullying as “unwanted, harmful behavior that involves a real or perceived power imbalance. This behavior is typically repeated over time.”
• All bullying (in person or online) is addressed seriously. Students and families should report incidents to school staff immediately.
• You can read more about OUSD's bullying policy here. 

8th grade Promotion Policy 

• Hillcrest students must meet the expectations of OUSD in order to participate in the 8th grade graduation ceremony. This policy includes maintaining a 2.0 GPA, passing PE, and restoring any discipline issues that may have occurred. Students and families will be reminded of our graduation policy multiple times throughout the year and will be informed two weeks before the ceremony if they are ineligible to participate. 

Field Trip Policy 

• At Hillcrest we offer numerous field trips at every grade level and believe learning outside the classroom is an important part of our curriculum. Unsafe or disrespectful behavior reflects on all of Hillcrest and impacts the experience of others; therefore, our   field trip policy states that serious behavioral or safety concerns may result in students being excluded from trips.