The prevalence of racial disparities in discipline outcomes continues despite a prominence of new strategies and research. When implemented with fidelity, PBIS (Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports) is shown to contribute to reductions in school suspension, expulsion, and other positive educational outcomes. Despite its promise for making…

The current policy terrain is primed for schools to absorb new discipline strategies and address bias-based beliefs. Over the past 10 years, numerous policy changes regarding discipline have emerged at the federal and state levels. I argue these policy shifts, primarily at the state level, are using two of four value levers (quality, efficiency,…

This discussion of corporal punishment as an aversive intervention with regular and special education students notes that corporal punishment is still legal and being used in many states. Special problems in the use of corporal punishment with students having disabilities are noted. The paper concludes that comprehensive procedural safeguards for…

Explores the destructive effects of student drug use on students, teachers, and the learning environment of public schools. Discusses healthy child development and the historical background of illegal drug use, and suggests strategies to produce a drug- and alcohol-free school environment with firm, clear institutional policies. (MLH)

Dr. Mitchell Yell, an expert in special-education law, is interviewed on the 1997 amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that will affect the discipline of students with disabilities. He addresses suspension and expulsion of students with disabilities, the required manifestation determination hearing, and…

This collection of position statements issued by the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) addresses three issues: (1) inclusive schools and community settings; (2) physical intervention; and (3) discipline. CEC's policy on inclusive schools is to support the concept of inclusion as a meaningful goal but also urge that a continuum of services be…

This article describes the ramifications of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act's positive behavioral interventions and supports (PBS) requirements in the context of disciplinary situations, including the interplay of PBS issues with functional behavioral assessment and behavioral intervention plans. The roles of the general educator…

Statistics indicate significant disparities between suspensions of White students and of minority group, especially African-American, students. This article argues that school disciplinary action against minority students must be reduced if educational equity is to be attained. A revised classification system for offenses, and in-school suspension…

This report presents the outcomes of a policy forum convened to address issues of disciplining students with disabilities. Summaries of panel presentations are provided, focusing on legal and policy issues, school/interagency solutions/good practices, and family and community issues. Observations and recommendation of forum workgroups are also…