There are no quick fixes or easy solutions to respond to the tragedies that have occurred in schools across the country—but there are evidence-based ways to change school environments so that students and teachers feel safer.
School Discipline
Secondary schools suspend or expel two million students each year, mostly for non-violent offenses such as disruption, disrespect, tardiness and dress code violations. Research shows that getting suspended or expelled increases students’ risk for falling into unproductive behavior, affecting their social-emotional development, academic performance, and life trajectories.
Studies also find that positive approaches to school discipline at all ages can actually improve students' academic performance, and those students are less likely to become involved in the juvenile justice system or have need for behavioral services.
Recently the U.S. Department of Education issued guidelines that recommended public school officials use new approaches to help reduce the time students spend out of school as punishment.
These AIR websites, toolkits, and resources support educators in their efforts to transform disciplinary practices in our nation’s schools. We also hear from the students themselves.
