TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 7-1-23 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech

 

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-24-23 

Big Education Ape: LAUSD BOARD PRESIDENT JACKIE GOLDBERG CALLED OUT ANTI-GAY EXTREMIST PROTESTERS IN VIRAL SPEECH #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/lausd-board-president-jackie-goldberg.html 

Big Education Ape: WHAT EVERY TEACHER NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CHATGPT BEFORE THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/what-every-teacher-needs-to-know-about.html

Big Education Ape: BREAKING NEWS: RANDI WEINGARTEN JOINS OTHER DEMOCRATIC WOMEN AS THE NEWEST TARGET OF THE MAGA WOMAN HATERS CLUB https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/breaking-news-randi-weingarten-joins.html 

Big Education Ape: HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS ARE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SROs) AND/OR CAMPUS POLICE NECESSARY https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/having-man-on-campus-are-school.html

Big Education Ape: THE NEW GILDED AGE: WHERE ARE THE TRUST BUSTERS WHEN YOU NEED THEM https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/the-new-gilded-age-where-are-trust.html 

Big Education Ape: CELL PHONES IN THE CLASSROOM: TO BAN OR NOT TO BAN THAT IS THE QUESTION https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/cell-phones-in-classroom-to-ban-or-not.html

Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-24-23 #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-6-24-23.html

Big Education Ape: AMERICA'S FAMILY SECRETS: REUTERS ASK WHAT'S IN YOUR WOODPILE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/americas-family-secrets-reuters-ask.html

Sunday, June 25, 2023 THE SUPREME COURT: HIGHEST COURT IN THE LAND OR A CONCLAVE OF BISHOPS IN BLACK ROBES https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/the-supreme-court-highest-court-in-land.html

Big Education Ape: FLORIDA SCHOOL SAFETY: GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/florida-school-safety-good-news-and-bad.html 

OTHER GREAT READS THIS WEEK FROM THE BIG EDUCATION APE

YESTERDAY

THE CHARTER SCHOOL MOVEMENT IS A VEHICLE FOR FRAUD AND CORRUPTION

by Mike Simpson / 22h

Privatization and corporate education reform have been touted as the saviors of our education system. However, as with any movement, there are always those who seek to exploit it for their own gain. And in the case of privatization and corporate education reform, that exploitation has taken the form of corruption, crimes, and scandals. Let's start with corruption. It's no secret that privatizati

JUN 29

SHOCKER: SAC CITY USD REVEALED THAT SUP JORGE WILL BE STEPPING DOWN

by Mike Simpson / 1d

In a shocking announcement, the Sac City Unified School District revealed that Superintendent Jorge Aguilar will be stepping down on Friday. This news has left many wondering what went wrong, but the truth is that Aguilar is just the latest in a long line of failed corporate education reform superintendents. Over the years, SCUSD has been reformed nearly to death by billionaire-sponsored sups he

OKLA GOV. STITT, STATE SUP. WALTERS YOU HAVE SOME SPLAININ TO DO

by Mike Simpson / 1d

Governor Kevin Stitt and State Superintendent Ryan Walters have some explaining to do after the Oklahoma State Auditor identified five schools that received preferential treatment in the 2021 fiscal year. The Oklahoma Capitol is buzzing after an audit revealed $30 million of questionable spending. The auditor's report has caused quite a stir in the state, with many people wondering how these sch

AI SAYS CHEATERS NEVER PROSPER

by Mike Simpson / 1d

Attention all students! Are you tired of actually studying and doing the work to get good grades? Well, fear not my fellow lazy comrades, because AI cheating is here to save the day! For those of you who don't know, AI (Artificial Intelligence) cheating is when a computer program or algorithm is used to cheat on tests or assignments. It's the perfect solution for those who want to get ahead with

JUN 28

BREAKING NEWS: SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS PROVEN TO TURN BLACK AND HISPANIC STUDENTS INTO CRIMINALS

by Mike Simpson / 2d

In a shocking report published in Criminology in June 2023, Benjamin W. Fisher and Alex O. Widdowson have found that school suspensions are turning Black and Hispanic students into criminals. That's right, folks, the very act of suspending a student from school is amplifying their risk of later arrest! Who knew detention could be so dangerous? According to the report, White students are immune t

WILL PUBLIC EDUCATION SURVIVE THE BILLIONAIRE'S CHARTER SCHOOL AND VOUCHER ASSAULT

by Mike Simpson / 2d

If you thought the future of public education in America was all doom and gloom, think again! There's a movement afoot by billionaires to privatize public education and turn it into a profit center for capitalism. And if that doesn't make you laugh, we don't know what will! But seriously, folks, there are pros and cons to this whole privatization thing. On the one hand, it could lead to more com

HOUSTON ISD: FIRST MONTH OF THE HOSTILE STATE TAKEOVER AND OCCUPATION BY MEATAXE MILE MILES

by Mike Simpson / 2d

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats because we have a wild story for you today. It's a tale of hostile takeovers, meat axes, and yes men. That's right, we're talking about the recent occupation of the Houston Independent School District by the state of Texas. The state decided to install their own guy, a certain MeatAxe Mike Miles, as the czar of the district. Now, if you're not familiar w

JUN 27

HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS ARE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SROs) AND/OR CAMPUS POLICE NECESSARY

by Mike Simpson / 3d

Are you ready to hear about the latest craze in school security? That's right folks, it's the one, the only, campus police! Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, won't having police officers on campus make our kids safer?" Well, hold onto your hats because we're about to dive into the pros and cons of having these law enforcement officials patrolling our schools. First up, let's talk abou

CELL PHONES IN THE CLASSROOM: TO BAN OR NOT TO BAN THAT IS THE QUESTION

by Mike Simpson / 3d

CELL PHONES IN THE CLASSROOM TO BAN OR NOT TO BAN THAT IS THE QUESTION Ah, the age-old debate of whether to allow cell phones in the classroom. It's a topic that has been discussed by educators, parents, and students alike for years. Some say that cell phones are a valuable tool for learning, while others argue that they are a distraction and should be banned altogether. So, what's the verdict? L

AMERICA'S FAMILY SECRETS: REUTERS ASK WHAT'S IN YOUR WOODPILE

by Mike Simpson / 3d

AMERICA'S FAMILY SECRETS REUTERS ASK WHAT'S IN YOUR WOODPILE Ladies and gentlemen, gather around! Do you know what's hiding in your woodpile? No, it's not just termites and spiders. It's something much more sinister - slavery's descendants. Yes, you heard that right. According to a recent investigation by Reuters, over 100 of America's leaders - lawmakers, presidents, governors, and justices - ha

FLORIDA SCHOOL SAFETY: GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS

by Mike Simpson / 3d

FLORIDA SCHOOL SAFETY GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS Attention all Floridians! As of July 1st, permitless carry will be the law of the land. That's right, no permit and no training needed to legally carry a concealed weapon. Because who needs safety training when you can just wing it, am I right? But fear not, dear citizens. The good news is that there will be fewer active shooter drills in schools. Beca

JUN 26

THE NEW GILDED AGE: WHERE ARE THE TRUST BUSTERS WHEN YOU NEED THEM

by Mike Simpson / 4d

THE NEW GILDED AGE WHERE ARE THE TRUST BUSTERS WHEN YOU NEED THEM If you think that the billionaires of today are bad for society, you might want to take a look at the history books and see how the robber barons of the Gilded Age were even worse. Or were they? The robber barons were the wealthy industrialists who dominated whole industries like railroads, banking, oil, and steel in the late ninet

BREAKING NEWS: RANDI WEINGARTEN JOINS OTHER DEMOCRATIC WOMEN AS THE NEWEST TARGET OF THE MAGA WOMAN HATERS CLUB

by Mike Simpson / 4d

In a shocking turn of events, Randi Weingarten, the president of the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), has become the latest target of the MAGA Woman Haters Club. Yes, you read that right. Apparently, there's a club for that now. Weingarten, who is a lawyer, an educator, and a political activist, has been accused of everything from promoting "filth" and "Marxist indoctrination" in public sc

JUN 25

THE SUPREME COURT: HIGHEST COURT IN THE LAND OR A CONCLAVE OF BISHOPS IN BLACK ROBES

by Mike Simpson / 5d

Ah, the Supreme Court. The highest court in the land, the final arbiter of justice, the...conclave of bishops in black robes? That's right, folks. The Supreme Court may be the ultimate authority on legal matters, but it's also a group of people who wear some seriously fancy dress. But let's not get distracted by the fashion choices of our esteemed justices. There's a more pressing issue at hand:

WHAT EVERY TEACHER NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT CHATGPT BEFORE THE NEW SCHOOL YEAR

ChatGPT KNOW AI

•

by Mike Simpson / 5d

If you are a teacher, you may have heard of ChatGPT, the new artificial intelligence tool that can generate text on almost any topic or task. You may also have some questions or concerns about how it will affect your classroom and your students. In this article, we will give you a brief overview of what ChatGPT is, what it can do, and what it can't do. We will also share some tips and best pract

JUN 24

LAUSD BOARD PRESIDENT JACKIE GOLDBERG CALLED OUT ANTI-GAY EXTREMIST PROTESTERS IN VIRAL SPEECH

by Mike Simpson / 6d

School Board President Jackie Goldberg calls out and destroys homophobic protesters. She showcases the book titled "The Great Big Book of Families" and gives a heartfelt, powerful speech about the importance of love and showing respect to lgbtq+ individuals . For more from TYT Investigates, SUBSCRIBE at: / tytinvestigatesre... You can read our stories at https://www.TYT.com/investigates LIKE and

BILLIONAIRE'S PRIVATE ARMIES - BILLIONAIRE'S CHARTER SCHOOLS: WHAT COULD GO WRONG

by Mike Simpson / 6d

BILLIONAIRE'S PRIVATE ARMIES - BILLIONAIRE'S CHARTER SCHOOLS WHAT COULD GO WRONG Have you ever wondered what billionaires do with their money? Well, besides buying islands and gold-plated toilets, some of them have decided to invest in two of the most absurd industries in the world: private armies and charter schools. Private armies are like the Avengers, but with less spandex and more guns. They

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-24-23 #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech

by Mike Simpson / 7d

TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-24-23 Big Education Ape: TOP BANANA: TOP READS THIS WEEK 6-17-23 #PrideMonth 🌈 #Pride2023 🌈 #tbats #edchat #K12 #learning #edtech https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/top-banana-top-reads-this-week-6-17-23.html Big Education Ape: WHY POOR KIDS GET SH*TY SCHOOLS AND/OR WHY ARE PROPERTY TAXES ARE THE ULTIMATE SOURCE FOR FUNDING PUBLIC EDUCATION https://bi

THE CHARTER SCHOOL MOVEMENT IS A VEHICLE FOR FRAUD AND CORRUPTION

THE CHARTER SCHOOL MOVEMENT IS A VEHICLE FOR FRAUD AND CORRUPTION

Privatization and corporate education reform have been touted as the saviors of our education system. However, as with any movement, there are always those who seek to exploit it for their own gain. And in the case of privatization and corporate education reform, that exploitation has taken the form of corruption, crimes, and scandals.

Let's start with corruption. It's no secret that privatization and corporate education reform have been driven by money. Private companies see education as a lucrative market, and they're not afraid to use their financial muscle to influence policy. This has led to a system where decisions about education are made not based on what's best for students, but on what's best for the bottom line.

Take, for example, the case of the charter school industry. Charter schools are publicly funded but privately run, and they've been touted as a way to improve education outcomes for students in struggling schools. However, the reality is that many charter schools are run by for-profit companies that prioritize profits over student success. These companies often engage in shady practices like inflating enrollment numbers to receive more funding or using public funds for personal gain.

And then there are the scandals. In recent years, we've seen a number of high-profile cases of fraud and embezzlement in the charter school industry. In 2016, the founder of a chain of charter schools in California was sentenced to four years in prison for embezzling $3.2 million in public funds. In 2018, a charter school in Indiana was shut down after it was revealed that school officials had used public funds to buy luxury cars and take vacations.

But it's not just the charter school industry that's been plagued by corruption and scandal. The push for corporate education reform has also led to a number of questionable practices in traditional public schools. For example, many school districts have signed contracts with private companies to provide services like testing or curriculum development. These contracts often come with hefty price tags and little oversight, leading to accusations of waste and abuse.

So what can be done about all this corruption, crime, and scandal? One solution is to increase transparency and accountability in the education system. This means requiring charter schools and private companies to disclose their finances and operations, as well as holding them accountable for any wrongdoing. It also means ensuring that decisions about education are made based on what's best for students, not what's best for private companies' bottom lines.

In the end, privatization and corporate education reform may have started with good intentions. But when profit becomes the driving force behind education policy, it's students who suffer. It's time to put an end to the corruption, crime, and scandal that have plagued this movement and refocus our efforts on providing all students with a high-quality education.

Here are some of the various crimes that charter schools have been charged with:

• Falsifying attendance records and test scores: This is a common way for charter schools to inflate their performance and receive more public funding. In some cases, schools have even been caught creating fake students or enrolling students who never attended classes.
• Stealing public funds: Charter schools are often given public funding based on the number of students they enroll. However, there have been cases of schools inflating their enrollment numbers or pocketing the money meant for students.
• Improper hiring practices: Charter schools are not always subject to the same hiring regulations as public schools. This has led to cases of schools hiring unqualified teachers or staff, or discriminating against certain groups of students.
• Abuse of students: There have been cases of charter schools physically or emotionally abusing students. In some cases, schools have even been accused of neglect or endangerment.
• Financial fraud: Charter schools are often responsible for managing their own finances. This has led to cases of schools misusing funds, engaging in conflicts of interest, or failing to properly account for their spending.
• Tax evasion: Charter schools are often exempt from paying certain taxes. However, there have been cases of schools failing to report their income or assets to the IRS.
• Bribery: Charter schools may be tempted to bribe officials in order to secure favorable treatment, such as a renewal of their charter or a larger allocation of public funding.
• Money laundering: Charter schools may be used as a front for money laundering, a process by which criminals conceal the origins of illegally obtained money.
• Extortion: Charter schools may be threatened or intimidated by criminals in order to pay them protection money.

These are just a few of the various crimes that charter schools have been charged with. It is important to note that not all charter schools are corrupt, but the cases that have been documented raise serious concerns about the potential for abuse in this sector.

Charter Scandals - Network For Public Education https://networkforpubliceducation.org/charter-scandals/ 

California Charter School Scandals Shows the Movement Is a Vehicle for Fraud & Corruption https://www.esquire.com/news-politics/politics/news/a48531/california-charter-schools/ 

Report: California ‘wasting’ millions of dollars funding online charter schools - The Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2021/02/02/report-california-wasting-millions-online-charters/ 

SHOCKER: SAC CITY USD REVEALED THAT SUP JORGE WILL BE STEPPING DOWN

SHOCKER: SAC CITY USD REVEALED THAT SUP JORGE WILL BE STEPPING DOWN

In a shocking announcement, the Sac City Unified School District revealed that Superintendent Jorge Aguilar will be stepping down on Friday. This news has left many wondering what went wrong, but the truth is that Aguilar is just the latest in a long line of failed corporate education reform superintendents.

Over the years, SCUSD has been reformed nearly to death by billionaire-sponsored sups hellbent on privatizing and destroying public education. And while some may argue that these superintendents had good intentions, the reality is that they were all more interested in lining their own pockets than in improving the lives of students.

Let's take a look at the long list of SCUSD superintendents who have come and gone:

Jorge A. Aguilar – July 1, 2017 to yesterday

José L. Banda – August 1, 2014 to June 30, 2017

Sara Noguchi, Ed. D, (interim) – January 1, 2014 to July 31, 2014

Jonathan P. Raymond – August 21, 2009 to December 31, 2013

Susan Miller, (interim) – July 1, 2008 to August 20, 2009

Dr. M. Magdalena Carrillo Mejia – January 5, 2004 to June 30, 2008

Chuck McCully, (interim) – July 9, 2003 to December 19, 2003

Dr. Jim Sweeney, (interim) February 3, 1997 to October 11, 1997; Appointed Superintendent, October 12, 1997 to July 8, 2003

Mr. Ted D. Kimbrough (interim) February 6, 1996 – May 6, 1996; Appointed Superintendent, May 7, 1996 – February 20, 1997

Dr. Jim Sweeney (interim) November 8, 1995 – February 5, 1996

Dr. Terry Grier, June 1, 1994-November 7, 1995

As you can see, the turnover rate for SCUSD superintendents is higher than a hot potato in a game of hot potato. It's no wonder that the district is in such disarray.

But fear not, dear readers! The board has promised to find a superintendent who actually loves public education and wants to improve it instead of ending it. And let's be honest, that shouldn't be too hard to find.

In fact, I hear that there's a retired teacher who lives down the street from me who would be perfect for the job. She's got a heart of gold and a passion for education that could light up a room. Plus, she's never taken a dime from a billionaire or tried to privatize anything in her life.

So come on SCUSD board, give her a call! And while you're at it, maybe take a look at your hiring process and figure out why you keep hiring these corporate shills in the first place.

In conclusion, we wish Jorge Aguilar all the best in his future endeavors. May he find a job that aligns with his true values and doesn't involve destroying the futures of our children. And may SCUSD finally find a superintendent who cares more about education than their own bank account.

Bing, 6/29/2023

Sac City Unified Superintendent Jorge A. Aguilar to step down at end of June. https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/careers/sac-city-unified-superintendent-jorge-a-aguilar-to-step-down-at-end-of-june/ar-AA1dbHna.

Superintendent - Sacramento City Unified School District. https://www.scusd.edu/superintendent.

Sacramento City Unified superintendent to step down after 6 tumultuous years with district. https://www.yahoo.com/entertainment/sacramento-city-unified-superintendent-step-004606721.html.

Sac City Unified Superintendent Jorge A. Aguilar to step ... - CBS News. https://www.cbsnews.com/sacramento/news/sac-city-unified-superintendent-jorge-a-aguilar-to-step-down-at-end-of-june/.

Sacramento City Unified superintendent to step down at end of June. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/sacramento-city-unified-superintendent-to-step-down-at-end-of-june/ar-AA1dbMMX.

OKLA GOV. STITT, STATE SUP. WALTERS YOU HAVE SOME SPLAININ TO DO

 

OKLA GOV. STITT, STATE SUP. WALTERS YOU HAVE SOME SPLAININ TO DO

Governor Kevin Stitt and State Superintendent Ryan Walters have some explaining to do after the Oklahoma State Auditor identified five schools that received preferential treatment in the 2021 fiscal year. The Oklahoma Capitol is buzzing after an audit revealed $30 million of questionable spending.

The auditor's report has caused quite a stir in the state, with many people wondering how these schools were able to receive preferential treatment. Was it because of their connections? Did they bribe someone? Or did they simply have a really good PR team?

One thing is for sure, the governor and state superintendent are feeling the heat. They are now under intense scrutiny and are being asked to explain why these schools were given preferential treatment. The people of Oklahoma want answers, and they want them now.

In a press conference, Governor Stitt tried to brush off the accusations, saying that the auditor's report was just a "misunderstanding." He went on to say that he had full confidence in Superintendent Walters and that he believed the schools in question deserved the extra funding.

But the people of Oklahoma are not buying it. They want to know why these schools were given preferential treatment, and they want to know now.

As for Superintendent Walters, he has been keeping a low profile since the audit was released. He has yet to comment on the allegations, but many people are calling for his resignation.

The auditor's report has also sparked a wave of humor on social media. Many Oklahomans are taking to Twitter to poke fun at the situation. One user tweeted, "I guess it pays to be the teacher's pet," while another joked, "I wonder if I can get preferential treatment at my job if I bring in donuts every day."

All jokes aside, this is a serious situation. The people of Oklahoma deserve transparency and accountability from their elected officials. The governor and state superintendent need to take responsibility for their actions and explain why these schools were given preferential treatment.

In conclusion, the auditor's report has caused quite a stir in Oklahoma. The governor and state superintendent are under intense scrutiny, and the people of Oklahoma want answers. While there may be some humor to be found in the situation, it is important to remember that this is a serious matter that requires transparency and accountability.

State Auditor identifies 5 schools that received 'preferential treatment' in 2021 fiscal y | KTUL https://ktul.com/news/local/state-auditor-identifies-5-schools-that-received-preferential-treatment-in-2021-fiscal-year 

Oklahoma Capitol buzzing after audit identifies $30M of questionable spending https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g-g87_4XaxM 

AI SAYS CHEATERS NEVER PROSPER

 

AI SAYS CHEATERS NEVER PROSPER 

Attention all students! Are you tired of actually studying and doing the work to get good grades? Well, fear not my fellow lazy comrades, because AI cheating is here to save the day!

For those of you who don't know, AI (Artificial Intelligence) cheating is when a computer program or algorithm is used to cheat on tests or assignments. It's the perfect solution for those who want to get ahead without actually putting in any effort.

But wait, you may be asking, isn't cheating wrong? Of course it is, but who cares about morals when you can get straight A's without lifting a finger?

However, there are some issues with AI cheating that we should address. Firstly, it's not exactly foolproof. Teachers and professors are becoming more aware of this type of cheating and are taking steps to prevent it. So, if you're going to cheat, you better make sure you're using a top-notch AI program.

Secondly, there's the issue of fairness. If everyone starts using AI cheating, then what's the point of even having tests and assignments? It becomes a competition of who has the best AI program, rather than who has the best understanding of the subject matter.

But fear not, my fellow cheaters, because there are solutions to these issues. Firstly, we need to make sure that our AI programs are top-notch and undetectable. This means investing in high-quality programs that can mimic human behavior and responses.

Secondly, we need to make sure that not everyone is using AI cheating. This means keeping it on the down-low and only sharing it with our closest confidants. We don't want to ruin a good thing by making it too popular.

Now, let's talk about some of the hilarious news stories surrounding AI cheating. In one instance, a student used an AI program to write their entire essay for them. The only problem? The program was set to "joke mode" and the essay ended up being a series of nonsensical puns and one-liners. Needless to say, they didn't get a good grade.

In another instance, a student used an AI program to take their online test for them. However, the program ended up glitching and selecting all of the wrong answers. The student ended up failing the test and getting caught for cheating.

So, while AI cheating may seem like the perfect solution for lazy students everywhere, it's not without its flaws. But hey, if you're willing to take the risk and invest in a top-notch program, then go for it! Just don't blame us if you end up failing miserably.

In conclusion, AI cheating may be a funny and tempting solution for those who don't want to put in the work, but it's not without its risks. So, if you're going to cheat, do it at your own risk and make sure you have a good sense of humor about it. After all, what's the point of getting good grades if you can't laugh about how you got them?

Suspicion, Cheating and Bans: A.I. Hits America’s Schools - The New York Times https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/28/podcasts/the-daily/ai-chat-gpt-schools.html

Bing, 6/29/2023

How to Tackle AI—and Cheating—in the Classroom. https://www.wired.com/story/how-to-tackle-ai-and-cheating-in-schools-classroom/.

My AI girlfriend saved my marriage — most people don’t think it’s cheating. https://nypost.com/2023/06/16/my-ai-girlfriend-saved-my-marriage-its-not-cheating/.

Is Using AI Cheating? Teacher Shows Students ChatGPT So They Can Complete Their Assignments and Get Ahead. https://www.msn.com/en-us/lifestyle/lifestyle-buzz/is-using-ai-cheating-teacher-shows-students-chatgpt-so-they-can-complete-their-assignments-and-get-ahead/ar-AA1cZgH2.

How ChatGPT and similar AI will disrupt education - Science News. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/chatgpt-ai-artificial-intelligence-education-cheating-accuracy?ref=upstract.com.

Cheaters beware: ChatGPT maker releases AI detection tool | AP News. https://apnews.com/article/technology-education-colleges-and-universities-france-a0ab654549de387316404a7be019116b.

Australian universities to return to ‘pen and paper’ exams after .... https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2023/jan/10/universities-to-return-to-pen-and-paper-exams-after-students-caught-using-ai-to-write-essays.

Combating Academic Dishonesty, Part 6: ChatGPT, AI, and Academic .... https://academictech.uchicago.edu/2023/01/23/combating-academic-dishonesty-part-6-chatgpt-ai-and-academic-integrity/.

How ChatGPT and similar AI will disrupt education - Science News. https://www.sciencenews.org/article/chatgpt-ai-artificial-intelligence-education-cheating-accuracy.

The First Year of AI College Ends in Ruin. https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2023/05/chatbot-cheating-college-campuses/674073/.

BREAKING NEWS: SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS PROVEN TO TURN BLACK AND HISPANIC STUDENTS INTO CRIMINALS

 

BREAKING NEWS: SCHOOL SUSPENSIONS PROVEN TO TURN BLACK AND HISPANIC STUDENTS INTO CRIMINALS 

In a shocking report published in Criminology in June 2023, Benjamin W. Fisher and Alex O. Widdowson have found that school suspensions are turning Black and Hispanic students into criminals. That's right, folks, the very act of suspending a student from school is amplifying their risk of later arrest! Who knew detention could be so dangerous?

According to the report, White students are immune to the criminalizing effects of suspension. In fact, some White students have even reported feeling rejuvenated after a suspension, like they've been given a new lease on life. It's almost like they've been to a spa instead of being punished for bad behavior.

But for Black and Hispanic students, the story is very different. The label of "suspended student" is consistent with stereotypes that link Blackness to criminality and Hispanic people to illegality. It's like the school is saying, "Hey, you're already a criminal, might as well lean into it." And that's not fair.

So what can schools do to avoid turning their students into hardened criminals? The report suggests alternatives to suspension, like restorative chats, counseling, problem solving/contracting, co-learning, and school service. But let's be real, those all sound like boring alternatives. Here are some more exciting options:

1. Dance Party: Instead of suspending a student, throw them a dance party. It's hard to be a criminal when you're doing the cha-cha slide.

2. Karaoke Competition: Give the suspended student a chance to show off their pipes. Who knows, they might be the next American Idol.

3. Paintball Tournament: Nothing says "let's work out our issues" like shooting paint at each other.

4. Escape Room Challenge: Put the suspended student's problem-solving skills to the test with an escape room challenge. If they can escape the room, they can escape a life of crime.

5. Celebrity Chef Showdown: Have the suspended student compete in a cooking competition judged by celebrity chefs. If they can make a mean risotto, they can make something of themselves.

These alternatives may seem unconventional, but they're sure to be more effective than simply sending a student home for a few days. Plus, it'll make school a lot more fun for everyone involved.

In all seriousness, school policies need to address the racial and ethnic disparities in the use of suspension and other forms of exclusionary discipline. The labeling process has different effects by race and ethnicity, and it's not fair that some students are being set up for a life of crime while others get off scot-free.

Let's make school a place where all students can thrive, regardless of their race or ethnicity. And let's do it without turning them into criminals in the process.

Education Research Report: School suspensions amplify Black, Hispanic students’ risk of later arrest https://educationresearchreport.blogspot.com/2023/06/school-suspensions-amplify-black.html 

Big Education Ape: HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS ARE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SROs) AND/OR CAMPUS POLICE NECESSARY http://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/having-man-on-campus-are-school.html 

THE DEFT DIVE

According to the report by Benjamin W. Fisher and Alex O. Widdowson, published in Criminology in June 2023², the major finding is that **school suspension amplifies Black and Hispanic students' risk of later arrest relative to White students**, whose risk of arrest is not amplified by suspension and in some cases is even diminished³. The authors used data from the National Longitudinal Study of Youth 1997 (N = 8,634) and found that the link between suspension and subsequent arrest was strongest for Black and Hispanic students because the label conferred by schools’ suspension of students is consistent with prevailing stereotypes that link Blackness to criminality and Hispanic people to illegality¹. The authors suggest that suspension is particularly harmful for Black and Hispanic relative to White students and that the labeling process has different effects by race and ethnicity².

Bing, 6/28/2023

(1) Racial and ethnic differences in the consequences of school suspension .... https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1745-9125.12344.

(2) School suspensions amplify Black, Hispanic students' risk of later .... https://phys.org/news/2023-06-school-suspensions-amplify-black-hispanic.html.

(3) School suspensions amplify Black, Hispanic st | EurekAlert!. https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/993717.

(4) Ethnic identity tied to disparities in school suspensions among Florida .... https://phys.org/news/2022-09-ethnic-identity-tied-disparities-school.html.

(5) School Suspension in Florida: The Interactive Effects of Race .... https://www.researchgate.net/publication/336879237_School_Suspension_in_Florida_The_Interactive_Effects_of_Race_Ethnicity_Gender_and_Academic_Achievement.

Some possible implications of this finding for school policies are:

• - School policies should consider **alternatives to suspension** where possible to avoid the negative effects of labeling and stigmatizing students, especially Black and Hispanic students²³.
• - School policies should adopt **restorative approaches** following a suspension experience to reintegrate students into prosocial communities and reduce their exposure to deviant peers².
• - School policies should address the **racial and ethnic disparities** in the use of suspension and other forms of exclusionary discipline, and examine how they may reflect and reinforce prevailing stereotypes¹⁴.
• - School policies should evaluate the **effectiveness and consequences** of suspension as a behavioral management tactic, and consider how it may impact students' academic achievement, dropout rates, and college attendance¹³.

 Bing, 6/28/2023

(1) Collateral Consequences of School Suspension: Examining the ‘Knifing .... https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12103-020-09579-5.

(2) Student Suspensions Have Negative Consequences, According to NYC Study .... https://nij.ojp.gov/topics/articles/student-suspensions-have-negative-consequences-according-nyc-study.

(3) School Discipline Linked to Later Consequences. https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/uk/19/09/school-discipline-linked-later-consequences.

(4) School suspensions amplify Black, Hispanic students' risk of later .... https://phys.org/news/2023-06-school-suspensions-amplify-black-hispanic.html.

Some examples of alternatives to suspension are:

• - **Restorative chat**: A strategy that helps the student understand the harm done by their actions and allows them an opportunity to repair this harm, such as by apologizing, making amends, or participating in a mediation process⁴.
• - **Counseling**: A strategy that provides the student with access to mental health care and support, and helps them address the underlying causes of their behavior, such as trauma, substance misuse, or emotional issues¹³.
• - **Problem solving/contracting**: A strategy that involves the student in identifying the problem behavior, its consequences, and possible solutions, and then creating a written agreement or contract that specifies the expectations, goals, and rewards for changing the behavior¹.
• - **Co-learning**: A strategy that engages the student in academic activities that are relevant, meaningful, and challenging, and that foster positive relationships with peers and teachers¹.
• - **School service**: A strategy that assigns the student to perform tasks that benefit the school community, such as assisting custodial staff, tutoring younger students, or organizing school events¹².

Bing, 6/28/2023

(1) Alternatives to Suspension: Three effective strategies for ... - NASSP. https://www.nassp.org/publication/principal-leadership/volume-16-2015-2016/principal-leadership-october-2015/alternatives-to-suspension-three-effective-strategies-for-changing-student-behavior/.

(2) Creative Alternative Strategies to School Suspensions. https://www.kickboardforschools.com/classroom-behavior-management/creative-alternative-strategies-to-school-suspensions/.

(3) Alternatives To Suspension | PBIS World. https://www.pbisworld.com/tier-2/alternatives-to-suspension/.

(4) Suspension Alternatives: It's Time To Reconsider Them - WeAreTeachers. https://www.weareteachers.com/suspension-alternatives/.

(5) PPT - Alternatives to Suspension PowerPoint Presentation ... - SlideServe. https://www.slideserve.com/harvey/alternatives-to-suspension.

(6) Alternatives to Suspension - [PPT Powerpoint] - vdocuments.net. https://vdocuments.net/alternatives-to-suspension-56baa6fc1ef1d.html.

WILL PUBLIC EDUCATION SURVIVE THE BILLIONAIRE'S CHARTER SCHOOL AND VOUCHER ASSAULT

WILL PUBLIC EDUCATION SURVIVE THE BILLIONAIRE'S CHARTER SCHOOL AND VOUCHER ASSAULT  

If you thought the future of public education in America was all doom and gloom, think again! There's a movement afoot by billionaires to privatize public education and turn it into a profit center for capitalism. And if that doesn't make you laugh, we don't know what will!

But seriously, folks, there are pros and cons to this whole privatization thing. On the one hand, it could lead to more competition and innovation in education. On the other hand, it could mean the end of public education as we know it. So let's take a closer look.

First off, let's talk about the billionaires. These guys are all about making money, and they see education as a ripe opportunity to do just that. They're pouring millions into charter schools, which are privately run but publicly funded. And they're pushing for vouchers, which would allow parents to use public funds to send their kids to private schools.

Now, some people think this is a great idea. They say it will give parents more choice and force public schools to up their game. But others worry that it will lead to a two-tiered education system, where only the rich can afford a decent education.

And then there's technology. Some folks think that online schools and other tech-based alternatives will revolutionize education. They say it will make learning more accessible and personalized. But others worry that it will lead to even more screen time for kids and less face-to-face interaction.

So what's the verdict? Honestly, we don't know. But we do know that there are plenty of alternatives to public education out there already. You've got your charter schools, your magnet schools, your military academies, your boarding schools, your private schools, and your tutoring services. And let's not forget homeschooling!

Of course, each of these alternatives has its own pros and cons. Charter schools may offer more freedom and flexibility, but they also have less oversight. Private schools may offer better resources and smaller class sizes, but they also come with a hefty price tag.

And then there's homeschooling. We won't lie, folks, this one can be a bit of a wild card. On the one hand, you get to be your kid's teacher and customize their education to their needs and interests. On the other hand, you have to be your kid's teacher and customize their education to their needs and interests.

So what's the bottom line? Well, we're not here to tell you what to do with your kids' education. But we do think it's important to remember that public education is a cornerstone of our democracy. It's where kids from all walks of life come together to learn and grow. And while it may not be perfect, we think it's worth fighting for.

So whether you're a billionaire looking to make a buck or a parent looking for the best education for your child, remember this: education is not a commodity. It's a right. And it's up to all of us to make sure that right is protected and upheld for generations to come.

In conclusion, the future of public education in America is uncertain, but one thing is clear: we need to continue to invest in our public schools. While alternatives like charter schools, vouchers, and technology may provide some benefits, they are not a panacea for the challenges facing our education system. We need to work together to ensure that all children have access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background or zip code. 

I say please don't let the billionaires turn our public schools to The Hunger Games with their charter schools and voucher schemes. 

The Destruction Of Education And Democracy In The US - MintPress News. https://www.mintpressnews.com/education-and-democracy/37712/.

The Republican Plan To Devastate Public Education in America. https://newrepublic.com/article/167375/republican-plan-devastate-public-education-america.

Public education is facing a crisis of epic proportions. https://www.washingtonpost.com/education/2022/01/30/public-education-crisis-enrollment-violence/.

History and Evolution of Public Education in the US. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/ED606970.pdf.

The War on Public Schools - The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2017/10/the-war-on-public-schools/537903/.

There are many opinions on the state of public education in America. Some believe that public education is being commodified into another profit center¹. Others believe that American public education is in poor shape today because of cultural and social trends, most beginning in the 1960s, which destroyed classroom discipline, the moral basis for education, and a national consensus on what students should learn². Some believe that cutting public education spending by more than half would destroy public schools for millions of students³. 

What Parents Need to Know About School Vouchers - U.S. News & World Report. https://www.usnews.com/education/k12/articles/what-parents-need-to-know-about-school-vouchers.

What Do We Know About Vouchers and Charter Schools? - RAND Corporation. https://www.rand.org/pubs/research_briefs/RB8018.html.

The current landscape of school choice in the United States. https://kappanonline.org/current-landscape-school-choice-united-states-vouchers-charter-schools-berends/.

Vouchers May Be The Next Big Education Reform. Have Charter Schools .... https://www.forbes.com/sites/petergreene/2021/03/07/vouchers-may-be-the-next-big-education-reform-have-charter-schools-been-left-behind/.

HOUSTON ISD: FIRST MONTH OF THE HOSTILE STATE TAKEOVER AND OCCUPATION BY MEATAXE MIKE MILES

HOUSTON ISD: FIRST MONTH OF THE HOSTILE STATE TAKEOVER AND OCCUPATION BY MEATAXE MIKE MILES

Ladies and gentlemen, hold onto your hats because we have a wild story for you today. It's a tale of hostile takeovers, meat axes, and yes men. That's right, we're talking about the recent occupation of the Houston Independent School District by the state of Texas.

The state decided to install their own guy, a certain MeatAxe Mike Miles, as the czar of the district. Now, if you're not familiar with ole MeatAxe Mike , let us fill you in. He's the same guy who used a meat axe to chop up the Dallas Independent School District. And by meat axe, we mean he made some pretty drastic changes that left a lot of people unhappy.

But Mike Miles is back, and he's badder than ever. He's promised to replace all the principals in Houston with his own "yes men." We're not sure what qualifications these yes men have, but we're guessing they're pretty good at nodding their heads and saying "yes, boss."

But that's not all. Mike Miles is also planning to install a two-tier salary system to screw with the union and divide the teachers. Because, you know, nothing brings people together like a good old-fashioned salary divide.

Now, we don't want to be too negative here, but we should mention that state takeovers of school districts seldom produce any positive changes in school operations. In fact, they often lead to more privatization and division in the district.

But hey, who needs positive changes when you've got a meat axe-wielding czar and his army of yes men? We're sure they'll figure it all out eventually. Or not.

In conclusion, we hope this story has entertained you and maybe even made you chuckle a bit. We'll be keeping an eye on the situation in Houston and we'll let you know if anything else wild and crazy happens. Until then, stay tuned and keep laughing.

Houston ISD's new superintendent wants to use same polarizing approach he applied in Dallas schools https://abc13.com/houston-isd-state-takeover-of-hisd-largest-district-in-texas-mike-miles/13410708/ 

HISD says termination messages were mistakenly sent to employees in 'communications system failure' https://abc13.com/houston-isd-employees-fired-communications-system-failure-hisd-statement-employment-termination-messages/13433046/ 

New HISD superintendent announces new principals, says more staffing changes to come https://abc13.com/new-education-system-hisd-takeover-texas-takes-over-houston-isd-tea/13434806/ 

Former DISD Superintendent's Past Scrutinized https://dallasexpress.com/education/former-disd-superintendents-past-scrutinized/ 

Big Education Ape: BREAKING NEWS: TEA TAKES OVER HISD, PLANS TO RENAME IT THE 'MIKE DISTRICT' https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/breaking-news-tea-takes-over-hids-plans.html 

Big Education Ape: BROADIE COWBOY MIKE MILES ORDERED TO HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT TO PRIVATIZE https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/broadie-cowboy-mike-miles-ordered-to.html

Big Education Ape: HOUSTON, WE HAVE A PROBLEM: THE RACIST HOSTILE TAKEOVER OF HISD https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/houston-we-have-problem-racist-hostile.html 

Big Education Ape: HISD MILES FIRST MOVE: BRING IN THE BILLIONAIRES' PRIVATIZER ATTACK DOGS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/hisd-miles-first-move-bring-in.html 

Big Education Ape: THE HOSTILE STATE TAKEOVER AND OCCUPATION OF HISD: REMEMBER DEMOCRACY...KIND OF NICE WASN'T IT https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/the-hostile-state-takeover-and.html 

Big Education Ape: CHAPTER 3 BILLIONAIRES PLAYBOOK: MIKE MILES DOES DALLAS NOW HUMPING HOUSTON https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/06/chapter-3-billionaires-playbook-mike.html

HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS ARE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SROs) AND/OR CAMPUS POLICE NECESSARY

HAVING 'THE MAN' ON CAMPUS

ARE SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS (SROs) AND/OR CAMPUS POLICE NECESSARY 

Are you ready to hear about the latest craze in school security? That's right folks, it's the one, the only, campus police! 

Now, I know what you're thinking. "But wait, won't having police officers on campus make our kids safer?" Well, hold onto your hats because we're about to dive into the pros and cons of having these law enforcement officials patrolling our schools.

First up, let's talk about the pro's. Having police on campus can deter crime and make students feel safer. Plus, if there were to be an active shooter situation, having trained professionals on hand could potentially save lives. 

But, as with anything in life, there are also some cons to consider. One major issue is the criminalization of kids. We all know that teenagers can make some questionable decisions, but is it really necessary to have them arrested for minor offenses? And let's not forget about the controversies surrounding School Resource Officers (SROs) and cops on campus. Some argue that their presence can actually make students feel more anxious and targeted.

But here's the kicker - having police on campus might not even be helpful in an active shooter situation. In fact, some studies have shown that the presence of armed officers can actually escalate the violence. So, what's the solution? Maybe we should focus on implementing better mental health resources and conflict resolution programs instead of relying solely on law enforcement.

Overall, it's clear that there are both pros and cons to having police on campus. But one thing is for sure - we need to have a serious conversation about school safety and come up with solutions that prioritize the well-being of our students. And who knows, maybe one day we'll look back on this trend and laugh about how we thought having police officers in schools was a good idea.

Denver Public Schools appeals judge's order to release recording of secret meeting about SROs: "An embarrassment" - CBS Colorado https://www.cbsnews.com/colorado/news/denver-public-schools-appeals-judges-order-release-recording-secret-meeting/ 

THE DEFT DIVE

Here are some of the pros and cons of having police officers in K-12 schools, based on the web search results:

Pros:

• - Police officers can provide a sense of security and deterrence for students and staff, especially in the case of an active shooter or other violent incident¹³.
• - Police officers can foster positive relationships with students and staff, and act as mentors, role models, and educators³.
• - Police officers can assist with emergency response, crime prevention, and law enforcement on campus, and coordinate with other agencies when needed³.

Cons:

• - Police officers can create a hostile and intimidating environment for students and staff, especially for those of color, who may face racial profiling, excessive force, improper surveillance, and criminalization¹².
• - Police officers can contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline, by arresting and referring students to the juvenile justice system for minor or nonviolent offenses that could be handled by school staff¹².
• - Police officers can interfere with students' rights to free speech and assembly, by blocking or clashing with protesters during student walkouts or demonstrations¹.

There are also some controversies surrounding the role and effectiveness of police officers on campus, such as:

• - The lack of clear policies and guidelines for the use of force, arrest, and referral by police officers on campus¹².
• - The lack of adequate training and supervision for police officers on campus, especially on issues such as cultural diversity, mental health, trauma-informed practices, and restorative justice¹².
• - The lack of accountability and transparency for police officers on campus, especially when they are involved in misconduct or abuse of power¹².
• - The cost and funding of police officers on campus, which may divert resources from other educational or social services that could benefit students and staff¹².

Bing, 6/27/2023

(1) Do Police Officers Make Schools Safer or More Dangerous?. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/06/12/us/schools-police-resource-officers.html.

(2) Campus Police VS. City Police - Law Enforcement Today. https://www.lawenforcementtoday.com/campus-police-vs-city-police/.

(3) 5 issues that could affect the future of campus police. https://theconversation.com/5-issues-that-could-affect-the-future-of-campus-police-163327.

(4) 14 Arming Teachers Pros and Cons – Should Teachers Be Armed?. https://futureofworking.com/14-arming-teachers-pros-and-cons-should-teachers-be-armed/.

The school-to-prison pipeline is a term that describes how some students, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds, are pushed out of school and into the criminal justice system because of harsh school policies and practices. According to Wikipedia¹, the school-to-prison pipeline is:

• > The disproportionate tendency of minors and young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds to become incarcerated because of increasingly harsh school and municipal policies. Additionally, this is due to educational inequality in the US. Many experts have credited factors such as school disturbance laws, zero-tolerance policies and practices, and an increase in police in schools in creating the "pipeline".

Some of the factors that contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline are:

• - Zero-tolerance policies that impose severe punishments for minor or nonviolent offenses, such as dress code violations, tardiness, or talking back to teachers¹².
• - School resource officers (SROs) or police officers who are assigned to schools and have the authority to arrest and refer students to the juvenile justice system¹².
• - Racial and ethnic disparities in school discipline, as students of color, especially Black and Hispanic boys, are more likely to be suspended, expelled, arrested, or referred than white students for similar or less serious offenses¹²³.
• - Lack of access to quality education, counseling, mental health services, and other supports that could help students stay in school and address their academic or behavioral needs¹²⁴.

The school-to-prison pipeline has negative consequences for students, schools, and society, such as:

• - Increased dropout rates, lower academic achievement, and reduced future opportunities for students who are pushed out of school¹²⁴.
• - Increased violence, disruption, and fear in schools that rely on punitive and exclusionary discipline measures¹²⁴.
• - Increased costs and burdens for the juvenile and criminal justice systems that have to deal with more cases of youth incarceration¹²⁴.
• - Increased social inequality, racial injustice, and human rights violations for communities that are disproportionately affected by the school-to-prison pipeline¹²⁴.

Bing, 6/27/2023

(1) School-to-prison pipeline - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/School-to-prison_pipeline.

(2) Study Confirms School-to-Prison Pipeline - U.S. News & World Report. https://www.usnews.com/news/education-news/articles/2021-07-27/study-confirms-school-to-prison-pipeline.

(3) Shutting Down the School-to-Prison Pipeline - American Bar Association. https://www.americanbar.org/groups/crsj/publications/human_rights_magazine_home/empowering-youth-at-risk/shutting-down-the-school-to-prison-pipeline/.

(4) What is the School-to-Prison Pipeline? | ADL. https://www.adl.org/resources/lesson-plan/what-school-prison-pipeline.

Some alternatives to zero-tolerance policies are:

• - **School Wide Positive Behavior Support (SWPBS)**: This is a framework that promotes positive and proactive school discipline, by teaching and reinforcing expected behaviors, providing differentiated support for students with different needs, and using data to monitor and evaluate outcomes⁴.
• - **Monarch Room**: This is a program that provides a safe and supportive space for students who are experiencing emotional or behavioral difficulties, where they can receive counseling, conflict resolution, and restorative practices⁴.
• - **Inclusive Skill-Building Learning Approach (ISLA)**: This is an approach that integrates social-emotional learning and academic instruction, by using cooperative learning, project-based learning, and culturally responsive pedagogy⁴.
• - **Restorative Discipline**: This is an approach that focuses on repairing the harm caused by misconduct, rather than punishing the offender, by involving the affected parties in a dialogue, identifying the needs and obligations of each party, and reaching a mutually agreeable resolution⁵.
• - **Virginia Student Threat Assessment**: This is a model that helps schools identify and respond to students who pose a threat of violence, by using a multidisciplinary team, conducting a standardized assessment, and providing appropriate interventions¹.

These alternatives are based on the principles of prevention, intervention, support, and accountability, rather than exclusion, punishment, and criminalization. They aim to address the root causes of student misbehavior, such as trauma, stress, or unmet needs, and to help students develop the skills and competencies they need to succeed in school and life. They also seek to foster a positive school climate and culture, where students feel safe, respected, and valued. Research has shown that these alternatives can reduce disciplinary referrals, suspensions, expulsions, arrests, and dropout rates, as well as improve academic achievement, attendance, engagement, and social-emotional outcomes¹²⁴⁶.

Bing, 6/27/2023

(1) How Non-Zero Tolerance Policies Better Support Our Students: Part II. https://www.shankerinstitute.org/blog/how-non-zero-tolerance-policies-better-support-our-students-part-ii.

(2) An Alternative to “Zero Tolerance” Disciplinary Policies for Texas .... https://research.utexas.edu/showcase/articles/view/an-alternative-to-zero-tolerance-disciplinary-policies-for-texas-schools.

(3) 4 alternatives to zero tolerance discipline | K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/4-alternatives-to-zero-tolerance-discipline/403832/.

(4) Zero Tolerance and Alternative Strategies: A Fact Sheet for Educators .... https://naspcenter.org/factsheets/zero-tolerance-and-alternative-strategies/.

(5) Alternatives to Zero Tolerance Policies Affecting Students of Color: A .... https://sophia.stkate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1506&context=msw_papers.

(6) Zero Tolerance and Aggressive Policing (And Why to Avoid It) in Depth. https://www.rand.org/pubs/tools/TL261/better-policing-toolkit/all-strategies/zero-tolerance/in-depth.html.

There are different ways that schools can implement alternatives to zero-tolerance policies, depending on their needs, resources, and goals. Based on the web search results, here are some general steps that schools can take to adopt more effective and equitable discipline practices:

• - **Review and revise existing policies and practices**: Schools should examine their current discipline data and policies, and identify any areas of concern, such as high rates of exclusionary discipline, racial disparities, or student dissatisfaction. Schools should also consult with stakeholders, such as students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members, to gather their input and feedback on the current situation and possible solutions²⁴.
• - **Select and adopt alternative approaches**: Schools should research and evaluate different alternative approaches to school discipline, such as those mentioned in the previous answer, and choose the ones that best fit their context and objectives. Schools should also consider how to integrate these approaches with their existing curriculum, instruction, and assessment systems²⁴.
• - **Provide training and support for staff and students**: Schools should ensure that all staff and students are familiar with the new approaches and understand their roles and responsibilities. Schools should also provide ongoing training and coaching for staff and students on how to implement the new approaches effectively and consistently. Schools should also create a positive school climate and culture that supports the new approaches²⁴.
• - **Monitor and evaluate outcomes**: Schools should collect and analyze data on the implementation and impact of the new approaches, such as changes in discipline rates, academic achievement, attendance, engagement, social-emotional skills, and school safety. Schools should also solicit feedback from stakeholders on their satisfaction and challenges with the new approaches. Schools should use this information to identify strengths and weaknesses, and make adjustments as needed²⁴.

These steps are not exhaustive or prescriptive, but rather indicative of some common elements that schools can follow to implement alternatives to zero-tolerance policies. Each school may have its own unique process and challenges, depending on its specific situation and needs. However, by following these steps, schools can move toward more effective and equitable discipline practices that benefit all students and staff.

Bing, 6/27/2023

(1) Zero Tolerance and Alternative Strategies: A Fact Sheet for Educators .... https://naspcenter.org/factsheets/zero-tolerance-and-alternative-strategies/.

(2) School-based restorative justice as an alternative to zero-tolerance .... https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/thcsj/10-2010_School-based_Restorative_Justice_As_an_Alternative_to_Zero-Tolerance_Policies.pdf.

(3) Zero Tolerance Policy in Schools: Rationale, Consequences, and Alternatives. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/249400404_Zero_Tolerance_Policy_in_Schools_Rationale_Consequences_and_Alternatives.

(4) Survey: Understanding how U.S. public schools approach ... - Brookings. https://www.brookings.edu/blog/brown-center-chalkboard/2023/01/19/survey-understanding-how-us-public-schools-approach-school-discipline/.

(5) What Are Zero Tolerance Policies in Schools? | Lawyers.com. https://www.lawyers.com/legal-info/research/education-law/whats-a-zero-tolerance-policy.html.

There are many examples of schools that have successfully implemented alternatives to zero-tolerance policies, such as the ones I mentioned in the previous answer. Here are some of them, based on the web search results:

• - **Cole Middle School** in Oakland, California, implemented a **school-based restorative justice** program in 2007, which involved using circles, conferences, and peer mediation to resolve conflicts and repair harm. The program reduced suspensions by 87%, expulsions by 100%, and referrals to law enforcement by 75%. The program also improved school climate, academic achievement, and student-teacher relationships⁵.
• - **Denver Public Schools** in Colorado adopted a **discipline matrix** in 2008, which provided a range of interventions and consequences for different types of infractions, based on their severity and frequency. The matrix also emphasized the use of restorative practices, prevention programs, and positive behavior support. The matrix reduced suspensions by 40%, expulsions by 60%, and referrals to law enforcement by 50%. The matrix also reduced racial disparities in discipline and increased graduation rates².
• - **Lincoln High School** in Walla Walla, Washington, implemented a **trauma-informed approach** in 2010, which recognized that many students had experienced adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that affected their behavior and learning. The approach involved training staff on how to respond to students' emotional and behavioral needs, providing counseling and support services, and using positive reinforcement and problem-solving strategies. The approach reduced suspensions by 85%, expulsions by 40%, and office referrals by 75%. The approach also improved attendance, academic performance, and student-teacher relationships⁴.
• - **Baltimore City Public Schools** in Maryland revised their **code of conduct** in 2008, which eliminated zero-tolerance policies and mandated the use of alternatives to suspension for minor offenses. The code of conduct also encouraged the use of restorative practices, social-emotional learning, and positive behavior support. The code of conduct reduced suspensions by 64%, expulsions by 40%, and arrests by 54%. The code of conduct also improved school climate, student engagement, and academic achievement¹.

These are just some examples of schools that have successfully implemented alternatives to zero-tolerance policies. There are many more schools across the country that are making similar efforts to improve their discipline practices and outcomes.

Bing, 6/27/2023

(1) School-based restorative justice as an alternative to zero-tolerance .... https://www.law.berkeley.edu/files/thcsj/10-2010_School-based_Restorative_Justice_As_an_Alternative_to_Zero-Tolerance_Policies.pdf.

(2) Alternative to Zero Tolerance Policies and Out-of-School ... - IUPUI. https://scholarworks.iupui.edu/bitstream/handle/1805/18971/Kyere_2018_alternative.pdf;sequence=1.

(3) 4 alternatives to zero tolerance discipline | K-12 Dive. https://www.k12dive.com/news/4-alternatives-to-zero-tolerance-discipline/403832/.

(4) Zero Tolerance and Alternative Strategies: A Fact Sheet for Educators .... https://naspcenter.org/factsheets/zero-tolerance-and-alternative-strategies/.

(5) Best Practices Alternatives to Zero Tolerance | CDE. https://www.cde.state.co.us/dropoutprevention/bestpracticesalternativestozerotolerance.