The issue of disproportionate discipline in schools affects many subcultures and geographic locations. African American students, for example, are disproportionately suspended or expelled from schools, which can have a detrimental effect on their academic and life outcomes. Latinx students also experience disproportionate discipline, particularly in states with large Latinx populations, such as California and Texas. Native American students face similar issues in states with large Native American populations, like Arizona and New Mexico. Students with disabilities are also disproportionately disciplined, which can have a detrimental effect on their academic and life outcomes.
Alternative types of discipline, such as restorative justice techniques, have been developed in several jurisdictions in order to address this problem. These methods, which focus on healing the harm caused by a student’s actions rather than just punishing the student, have been adopted by many states (Open States: Discover Politics in Your State and Congress, n.d.). This strategy has been demonstrated to be beneficial in lowering the number of disciplinary actions taken and increasing the overall outcomes for the students (Fowler & Witt, 2019). Healthy behavior interventions and supports, as well as cultural competency training for teachers and staff, have also been undertaken by states. This is an effort to establish a positive school atmosphere and minimize the number of disciplinary actions taken in schools.
In conclusion, the issue of disproportionate discipline in schools is a complex and multifaceted problem that affects many subcultures and geographic locations. To address this issue, states have implemented alternative forms of discipline, such as restorative justice practices and cultural competency training for teachers and staff (Fowler & Witt, 2019). These strategies have been shown to be effective in reducing disciplinary actions and improving student outcomes. It is important to continue gathering data, researching and finding ways to address this issue, as it affects many communities and has a huge impact on many students’ lives.
References
Fowler, L., & Witt, S. L. (2019). State preemption of local authority: The political system and political culture. Publius: The Journal of Federalism, 49(3), 540-559. Web.
Open States: discover politics in your state and Congress. (n.d.). Web.