NEW YORK—Kindergarten through third grade students will no longer face “Superintendent suspensions,” of six days or more, for less serious misbehavior, following a revision to the Department of Education’s (DOE) disciplinary code.
Gotham Schools reported the changes came as a result of a public hearing and advocacy from councilmembers, including Speaker Christine C. Quinn.
Quinn said on Twitter she was “glad we’re eliminating overly harsh punishments for K-3 grade children.”
According to a spokesperson with the DOE, the disciplinary code is reviewed annually for potential revisions. Stakeholders propose changes which are presented at a public hearing, and some are implemented.
As for the change to the suspension length for younger students, “Because they are low level infractions, we believe a more progressive discipline is warranted with strong counseling and youth development support,” said DOE spokesperson David Pena in an email.
The six day-plus suspensions are still in effect for more serious infractions, categorized as level four, such as possessing illegal drugs and alcohol, for grades K-3, and for level three infractions and higher for other grades.
The Epoch Times publishes in 35 countries and in 19 languages. Subscribe to our e-newsletter.
Friends Read Free