Communication

How We communicate

Our school community is committed to relationships that honor our Lord and one another. The following program outlines biblical principles and procedures to assist us in learning together to live like Christ.

To establish a community characterized by loving, open and trusting relationships between students, parents, teachers, administrative staff and church leadership we encourage members to:

Rely upon the principles of communication set forth in the Scriptures, for His Word penetrates the heart and judges our thoughts and attitudes (Hebrews 4:12)
Communicate personally and directly to the appropriate person(s) to solve problems and avoid involving third parties (Matthew 18:15)
Allow the Holy Spirit to produce His fruit in each life (Galatians 5:22)
Maintain a pure heart for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:35)
Speak to benefit others (Ephesians 4:29-32)
Select words that bring true understanding (Proverbs 17:27)
Listen to learn and listen before we evaluate; hear others out (Proverbs 23:12, 25:12)
Control our tongues (James 1:26)
Stop a quarrel before it gets started (Proverbs 20:3)
Be accountable for what we say (Matthew 12:34-37)
Do not speak evil of another person (Ephesians 4:31, James 4:11)
Seek to help, not hurt (I Corinthians 13:4-7)

Good Shepherd School seeks to provide accurate and up-to-date information and support positive relationships through both formal (newsletters, letters, grading, meetings, conferences, etc.) and informal (day-to-day interactions, conversations, informal meetings) processes.

In the communication process, disagreements and misunderstandings inevitably occur. We desire to use these situations as opportunities for growth and a deepening of relationships. We ask that each member use the following process in seeking resolution to a disagreement or misunderstanding. The purpose of this procedure is to secure between individuals at the simplest level possible, orderly solutions that may arise from time to time.

Prayerfully, calmly and respectfully go directly to the person with whom you have a misunderstanding or concern to work toward resolution.
If you have a question, misunderstanding or disagreement with a school practice; or if a problem with an individual has not been resolved in a private meeting, the principal will meet with the concerned party or parties to seek and provide information and/or to resolve conflict.
In the event the problem is not satisfactorily resolved at levels one and two as above, the church leadership (pastors and/or elders) will be asked to help facilitate a resolution.
In the final analysis, after receiving input and careful deliberation of issues, it is the responsibility of all participants to support decisions made by those in leadership positions.