Why I shouldn’t be suspended?

Why I Shouldn’t Be Suspended?

As a student, being suspended from school can be a daunting experience. It can lead to feelings of isolation, frustration, and even despair. However, being suspended is not the solution to every problem. In fact, it can have long-term consequences that can affect a student’s academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. In this article, we will explore the reasons why suspension is not an effective solution and why it’s essential to consider alternative approaches.

The School-to-Prison Pipeline

The school-to-prison pipeline is a term used to describe the process by which students are funneled from the education system to the criminal justice system. Suspension is a significant contributor to this pipeline, as it can lead to students being pushed out of school and into the criminal justice system. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, students who are suspended are three times more likely to be arrested and five times more likely to be expelled. This is a disturbing trend that highlights the need for alternative approaches to discipline.

The Negative Impact on Students

Suspension can have a profound impact on students, particularly those who are already vulnerable. Research has shown that students who are suspended are more likely to experience depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. Additionally, suspension can lead to a loss of academic momentum, making it more challenging for students to catch up when they return to school. A study by the American Psychological Association found that students who are suspended are more likely to fall behind academically and have lower graduation rates.

The Lack of Effectiveness

Suspension is often used as a punitive measure, but it is not an effective way to change behavior. Studies have shown that suspension does not reduce misbehavior or improve academic performance. In fact, suspension can often lead to more misbehavior, as students may feel that they have nothing to lose. A study by the Brookings Institution found that students who are suspended are more likely to engage in misbehavior when they return to school.

Alternative Approaches

So, what can schools do instead of suspension? Here are a few alternative approaches:

• Restorative Justice: This approach focuses on repairing the harm caused by misbehavior, rather than punishing the student. Restorative justice programs have been shown to reduce recidivism rates and improve academic performance.
• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS): This approach focuses on creating a positive school culture and providing support to students who are struggling. PBIS programs have been shown to reduce misbehavior and improve academic performance.
• Social-Emotional Learning: This approach focuses on teaching students skills such as self-awareness, self-regulation, and empathy. Social-emotional learning programs have been shown to improve academic performance and reduce misbehavior.

Conclusion

Suspension is not an effective solution to misbehavior in schools. In fact, it can have long-term consequences that can affect a student’s academic performance, social relationships, and overall well-being. Instead of suspension, schools should focus on alternative approaches that promote positive behavior and support students who are struggling. By doing so, we can create a more positive and supportive school culture that benefits all students.

Table: Alternative Approaches to Suspension

Bullets: Benefits of Alternative Approaches

• Reduced recidivism rates
• Improved academic performance
• Improved social relationships
• Increased student engagement
• Increased student motivation
• Improved school culture