Improving School Climates and Reducing Disparities

by | January 10, 2014

Home 9 WisKids Count 9 Improving School Climates and Reducing Disparities ( Page 14 )

On Wednesday, Education Secretary Arne Duncan and Attorney General Eric Holder released Guiding Principles to help guide schools to improve school climate and discipline.  Addressing concerns about the extensive use of suspensions, expulsions, and other exclusionary practices that in the end hurt achievement – particularly youth of color – this document provides an overview of research, best practice, and principles to create school climates that engage all youth.

The document includes principles and guidance related to the still-growing use of law enforcement in schools – promoting prevention and alternatives to arrest and court referrals.  Along with the federal interagency Supportive School Discipline Initiative, use of these ideas can go a long way to improving outcomes for students and schools.

In Wisconsin, black youth are suspended at six times the rate as white youth and Hispanic youth at twice the rate of white youth. We support Wisconsin DPI and district efforts to address these disparities and applaud the Obama administration’s initiative.

Jim Moeser

Kids Forward
Kids Forward

Join us to build a Wisconsin where every child and family thrives.

Donate Now

Recent

K-12 Education in the Fox Valley

K-12 Education in the Fox Valley

by | May 9, 2023

Every student in the Fox Valley region deserves to receive the educational support and resources needed to help them achieve a bright future. Over the past few years, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant impacts on students in Wisconsin. These challenges were particularly acute for students who were more likely to be struggling prior to the pandemic, like students with lower incomes, students of color, and students who speak English as a second language. With federal pandemic relief funds drying up, state leaders must ensure schools have adequate resources and that students don’t fall even more behind.

Early Care & Education in the Fox Valley

Early Care & Education in the Fox Valley

by | May 9, 2023

Every child deserves a solid foundation in life, regardless of income. Affordable and accessible early care and education ensures that parents can get to work and sets children up for a strong start. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how child care is critical for children and families and why early care and education providers are an essential part of our local communities and a thriving economy.

Sign up for Emails

Your address helps us identify your legislators and the most relevant messages to send you.