Our state (and thereby, we, as the people in it) are failing African American students. We all believe, however, that truly “great” education levels an unequal field. We even know that God is blessing our efforts.
The issue of “exclusionary discipline practices” (like suspensions and expulsions) is quite relevant to this conversation. As a driver of the “school to prison pipeline,” – and as every parent and youth worker knows – how we discipline and develop our children matters. The immediate outcome alone isn’t our goal, but what children internalize through the process that makes a difference. It moves far beyond a simple control of behavior.
This Education Next article carefully examines these discipline issues and provides some hopeful alternatives to traditional suspension and expulsion. It is highly related to our understanding of trauma and the building up of character in our children. By the way, while it comes as no surprise, empathy helps in the discipline process.
I have tremendous hope that our city will get this right for our most undeserved children — and, for our part, we will keep learning and growing until every child in our schools succeeds. Thank you for all you do.
-Shaun
Lead Like Jesus ♦ Every Child Succeeds…Period ♦ Value the Team ♦ Embrace the Process ♦ Generate Joy ♦ RISE UP
mber who unexpectedly passed away this week. While tragic and heartbreaking, our children are simply amazing. 