Massachusetts H541 bans suspension and expulsion for public prekindergarten through 3rd grade students.

Massachusetts H541 amends the state's education law to prohibit the suspension or expulsion of students in public prekindergarten through 3rd grade for disciplinary infractions. The bill emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted learning during these formative years, especially in light of the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It also mandates the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide guidance and resources to schools for alternative disciplinary responses, such as mediation and restorative justice.

Massachusetts H541 bans suspension and expulsion for public prekindergarten through 3rd grade students.

Massachusetts H541 amends the state's education law to prohibit the suspension or expulsion of students in public prekindergarten through 3rd grade for disciplinary infractions. The bill emphasizes the importance of uninterrupted learning during these formative years, especially in light of the educational disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It also mandates the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide guidance and resources to schools for alternative disciplinary responses, such as mediation and restorative justice.