S2 E. 6 Discipline Part 3: (the last one, we promise!)

MA General Laws Regarding School DisciplineThe Big Three (the weapons and drugs are combined in section a - FYI) ...."Notwithstanding any general or special law to the contrary, all student handbooks shall contain the following provisions:(a) Any student who is found on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, in possession of a dangerous weapon, including, but not limited to, a gun or a knife; or a controlled substance as defined in chapter ninety-four C, including, but not limited to, marijuana, cocaine, and heroin, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal.(b) Any student who assaults a principal, assistant principal, teacher, teacher's aide or other educational staff on school premises or at school-sponsored or school-related events, including athletic games, may be subject to expulsion from the school or school district by the principal."Alternatives to Suspension (thanks to PBISworld.com for their references)Alternatives To SuspensionWhy should I do it:Suspending kids is very unproductive for academicsSome kids get suspended on purpose to get out of work or away from something they do not want to cope or deal withSuspensions are not an effective deterrent for many kids, who do not see it as a significant consequence or negative stimulusProviding alternatives to suspensions can be much more effective in getting students’ behavior to changeThere are many alternatives that motivate students better than suspending themWhen should I do it:When a student gets into trouble and suspended frequentlyWhen a student is trying to get suspended on purpose or to get out of somethingWhen students really need the instruction but a consequence or discipline is warrantedWhen suspensions do not seem to be doing anything and are ineffectiveHow do I do it:There are various alternatives to suspension and ways to carry them out.Always use a neutral tone and do not allow yourself to be drawn into power struggles.Alternatives may be discussed with a student or students before implementing themSome common alternatives include:in-school suspensionschool service (for example, assisting custodial staff with after school clean-up, lunch clean-up, etc)mini coursecounselingcommunity servicerestitutionproblem solving or behavior contractalternative programmingloss of privileges (like lunch, recess, social time, etc)detention (before or after school)mentoring (with a teacher, counselor, or other staff member before or after school)behavioral contractsreferral to community mental health servicesPlease tell us how you found us by completing this surveyEmail us at [email protected] us on Instagram @astalpodcast