A positive learning environment is a key component of a successful AE class. It is the teacher's responsibility to ensure that a positive learning environment is present in their classroom at all times. Enforcing strict standards for student behavior is critical to establishing and maintaining a positive learning environment in an AE class.

Clear expectations for student behavior must be set forth during the comprehensive student orientation conducted before each student attends their first class. In order to ensure a positive learning environment, it is necessary to establish during student orientation that a "zero tolerance" policy exists for certain student behaviors. "Zero tolerance" means that the appropriate disciplinary action is taken upon the first offense. No second chances are allowed . One strike and you are out.

If a student commits a zero tolerance offense, they must be immediately dismissed form class. The term of the dismissal may be set at the discretion of the teacher, but the student must be dismissed. If the offense is minor or a first time offense, the teacher may dismiss the student for one or more days of class. A more serious offense or a repeated minor offense may dictate a dismissal of a week or more. Very serious offenses may require permanent dismissal. Students returning from a dismissal must be offered a brief counseling session to determine whether the dismissal had the desired effect and they are now ready to return to class as a productive student. If not, they must not be allowed to return.