Rethinking School Suspensions: Addressing The Root Causes Of Misbehavior

Omar Yusuf

6 min read

Post on May 02, 2025

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The Ineffectiveness of Suspensions

The traditional approach of suspending students for misbehavior is demonstrably ineffective and often counterproductive. It fails to address the underlying issues contributing to the problem, leading to a cycle of repeated offenses and negative consequences for both the student and the school community.

Academic Impact

Suspensions significantly disrupt a student's education, leading to a cascade of negative academic outcomes.

• Increased absences and missed coursework: Students miss valuable instruction and fall behind their peers, impacting their grades and overall academic progress. This can lead to a sense of frustration and disengagement.
• Disruption of learning routines and social connections: The break from the established learning environment can make it difficult for students to reintegrate and catch up. They may also lose valuable social connections with classmates and teachers.
• Negative impact on standardized test scores: Missed classes and disrupted learning directly affect students' performance on standardized tests, further exacerbating academic inequalities.

Social and Emotional Impact

Beyond the academic consequences, suspensions have a detrimental impact on students' social and emotional well-being.

• Increased feelings of isolation and alienation: Suspension isolates students from their peers and support systems, contributing to feelings of loneliness, anger, and resentment.
• Potential for increased risk-taking behaviors: Removed from the structured school environment, suspended students may be more likely to engage in risky behaviors.
• Damage to self-esteem and sense of belonging: The punitive nature of suspension can damage a student's self-esteem and sense of belonging within the school community.

The School-to-Prison Pipeline

The overuse of suspensions contributes significantly to the school-to-prison pipeline, a disturbing trend where students are funneled from school disciplinary systems into the juvenile and criminal justice systems.

• Correlation between suspension rates and incarceration rates: Studies consistently demonstrate a strong correlation between high suspension rates and increased rates of incarceration later in life.
• Lack of support systems for students returning from suspension: Many schools lack adequate support systems to help students reintegrate after suspension, leaving them vulnerable to further disciplinary action.
• The cyclical nature of suspension and future misbehavior: Suspension often fails to address the root causes of misbehavior, leading to a cycle of repeated offenses and escalating consequences.

Identifying and Addressing Root Causes of Misbehavior

To effectively address student misbehavior, we must move beyond punitive measures and focus on identifying and addressing the underlying causes.

Trauma-Informed Approaches

Many students exhibit challenging behaviors as a result of past trauma. Implementing trauma-informed practices is crucial for creating a supportive and understanding learning environment.

• Recognizing the signs and symptoms of trauma in students: Educators need training to identify the behavioral manifestations of trauma, such as anxiety, hypervigilance, and emotional dysregulation.
• Providing safe and supportive environments: Creating a classroom that is predictable, safe, and emotionally regulated can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of security.
• Offering trauma-informed interventions and counseling: Providing access to trauma-informed therapy and other support services can help students process their experiences and develop coping mechanisms.

Addressing Learning Disabilities and Mental Health

Learning disabilities and mental health challenges are significant contributors to behavioral problems in school. Early intervention and appropriate support are crucial.

• Early intervention and specialized support services: Providing early identification and access to specialized services, such as tutoring and therapy, can prevent minor behavioral issues from escalating.
• Collaboration between schools, parents, and mental health professionals: Effective support requires collaboration among all stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach.
• Implementing inclusive classroom practices: Creating inclusive classrooms that cater to diverse learning needs can help reduce frustration and improve student engagement.

Improving School Climate and Culture

A positive school climate and culture are essential for reducing misbehavior and promoting student well-being.

• Promoting positive relationships between students and teachers: Strong teacher-student relationships can foster trust, respect, and a sense of belonging.
• Creating a sense of community and belonging: Schools should strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all students feel valued and respected.
• Implementing restorative justice practices: Restorative justice focuses on repairing harm and fostering understanding rather than simply punishing wrongdoing.

Alternative Disciplinary Strategies

Instead of relying on suspensions, schools should adopt alternative disciplinary strategies that address the root causes of misbehavior and promote positive behavior change.

Restorative Justice

Restorative justice practices focus on repairing harm caused by misbehavior and fostering understanding between the offender and the victim.

• Circle meetings and conflict resolution: These methods allow students to take responsibility for their actions and repair the harm they have caused.
• Focus on accountability and rehabilitation: The goal is not simply to punish but to help students understand the consequences of their actions and make amends.
• Improved student-teacher relationships: Restorative practices can strengthen relationships and create a more positive school climate.

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)

PBIS is a proactive approach to discipline that focuses on teaching positive behaviors and preventing problem behaviors from occurring in the first place.

• Clear expectations and consistent reinforcement: Establishing clear expectations and consistently reinforcing positive behaviors creates a predictable and supportive learning environment.
• Individualized behavior support plans: These plans address the specific needs of individual students and provide tailored support to help them succeed.
• Data-driven decision-making: PBIS uses data to monitor student behavior and make informed decisions about interventions and support.

Community Involvement

Engaging the wider community can provide crucial support for students and families.

• Mentorship programs: Mentors can provide positive role models and support for students who may be struggling.
• Family engagement initiatives: Strong family involvement is crucial for supporting student success and positive behavior.
• Access to community resources: Schools should connect families with resources such as counseling, healthcare, and social services.

Conclusion

Rethinking school suspensions is not just about finding alternatives to punishment; it's about creating a more equitable and effective educational system. Suspensions are ineffective, often exacerbate existing problems, and disproportionately affect marginalized students. Addressing the root causes of misbehavior through trauma-informed approaches, support for learning disabilities and mental health, and improved school climate is crucial. Alternative disciplinary strategies such as restorative justice and PBIS offer more sustainable and positive approaches to student discipline. Let's work together to rethink school suspensions and build a more supportive and equitable educational system for all students.