Anti-Bullying Policy

"You shall love your neighbor as yourself." - Galatians 5:14


At Willow Creek Gathers, we aim to foster a community of kindness, inclusion, and Christ-like love. We are committed to building each other up and discouraging any form of bullying—physically, mentally, or emotionally. Bullying, defined as intentional harm or intimidation, will not be tolerated.


Action Plan for Bullying:

  1. First Offense : Parent contact to address unkind behavior. The child may be shadowed by a teacher or helper to correct the behavior.
  2. Second Offense : The child may be excluded from co-op the following week or required to be shadowed by a parent.
  3. Third Offense : The child may be asked to leave for the remainder of the year, with no refund of fees.

Severe or Violent Behavior : Immediate dismissal at the discretion of the directors.


We encourage open communication with your child about kindness and inclusion. Ensure they understand the importance of making others feel welcome and included in all activities. While not everyone will be best friends, all children should treat each other with respect and empathy.


Discipline Policy


We aim to maintain an environment of respect and learning. Students are expected to follow basic classroom manners: listening, not interrupting, and showing kindness. Teachers may use the follow following steps for discipline if they feel the situation is warranted:

  1. First Offense : Verbal warning
  2. Second Offense : Move seats to another side of the room
  3. Third Offense : The child may be escorted to the hallway and accompanied by the helper for a couple minutes of calm-down time. 

Teachers should not allow any statements of ill-intent to go without action. If a child says any harmful words, the child’s parent should be notified by the end of co-op day so the situation can be addressed as they feel warranted for their family and the director should be notified. 


Severe Behavior : Aggressive actions like hitting, biting, or kicking will result in immediate removal from the situation. 

Joking or otherwise, co-op is not the place for comments about harming ourselves or others; having/bringing weapons and all such statements will be taken seriously.


Excessive Violations : Ongoing discipline issues may lead to a loss of co-op privileges. Decisions will be made prayerfully by the Board.


We hope this policy is never needed, but every child’s safety and well-being is our top priority. Parents are encouraged to observe their child’s class and communicate with the director if concerns arise. Thank you for partnering with us to create a positive, Christ-centered community.