Replacing exclusion with support: fair discipline, positive school climate, and safe pathways to graduation.
What’s Broken
Black students—especially Black girls and students with disabilities—are suspended and expelled at disproportionate rates. Exclusionary discipline harms achievement and increases justice-system contact.
Policy Actions
- Limit Exclusion: Ban suspensions for minor, non-violent offenses.
- Positive Behavioral Supports (PBIS) & Restorative Practices: Train and staff accordingly.
- Data Transparency: Public dashboards by race, gender, disability.
- Support Teams: Counselors, social workers, and mental health partnerships.
- End Over-Policing: Define the role of school safety; prioritize de-escalation and student rights.
