Suspensions discouraged. Yeah, so?
There are nationwide efforts to reduce suspensions. They are applied inequitably and I definitely agree they are ineffective. Although, I will say that in some cases, everyone, teacher and student alike, need a “cooling off” period. Suspension may not be the ultimate answer, however.
Our district shifted to a nebulous program of “restorative justice.” In practice, this means nothing other than “don’t suspend.” Restorative justice sounds promising. When practiced effectively, I am certain it could help our students. But in the haste to keep suspension numbers down, and prevent the district from looking like it can’t “handle” its students, alternatives are encouraged without adequate implementation. We then get what has been described by the LA Times:
The district moved to ban suspensions amid national concern that they imperil academic achievement and disproportionately affect minorities, particularly African Americans.But many teachers say their classrooms are reeling from unruly students who are escaping consequences for their actions.
This is my experience exactly. I don’t have a problem with restorative justice or any progressive discipline Suspensions discouraged. Yeah, so? | @ THE CHALKFACE:
