The rules are pretty simple and general, but they cover a wide range of actions. I can easily modify it to meet my current school s policies. I also think a student contract is a great idea. In science labs we do this with students in the form of safety contracts. This can be done in all classes by giving the students a copy of the classroom management plan, going over it with them, and have parents and students sign it.
Praise is always an effective motivation tool.
Students find that they like receiving these commendations and will try to maintain or exceed their level of performance. For my documentation I have two artifacts. I have photographs of displays of student work. I also have a copy of my classroom management plan. This shows both sides of the classroom environment, the teacher and the student.