Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Promoting Equity In Education: Fostering Positive School Climates Where All Students Learn, Rebecca Bakkedahl, Jessica Bernier, Karen Hernandez, Samantha Koktan

Master of Social Work Student Policy Advocacy Briefs

Students of color and students with disabilities are disproportionately impacted by exclusionary discipline in our schools. Suspensions, removals, and expulsions do not work. There is strong evidence to suggest that such punitive practices do not deter misbehavior. They are a pathway to students dropping out of school and a gateway to involvement with the criminal justice system. Minnesota must end exclusionary disciplinary practices and replace these punitive approaches with practices that create opportunity and foster a positive, supportive, affirming school climate where all students can learn, grow, and thrive.