Washington, D.C. (Dec. 21, 2018) –– The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) Executive Director Carissa Moffat Miller released the following statement about the U.S. Department of Education's decision to rescind guidance related to disproportionate disciplinary policies.
“Disciplinary policies and practices that disproportionately impact students based on race are unacceptable, and as state education leaders, we take seriously our responsibility to ensure all students are learning in a safe and supportive school environment.
“In 2017, state chiefs came together and committed to a series of actions to advance equity for all students, including a look at disciplinary practices and exploring alternative strategies, such as restorative justice. To begin to address this issue, state chiefs recognize they first must be transparent with students, families and communities about a problem when it exists and how a school is working to address it. The previous federal guidance was one part of how states have been addressing unfair disciplinary practices and policies.
States remain committed to continuing this important work with stakeholders because it is the right thing to do on behalf of all students.”
For more information on states' commitments to advancing equity, visit www.ccsso.org/equity.
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The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is a nonpartisan, nationwide, nonprofit organization of public officials who head departments of elementary and secondary education in the states, the District of Columbia, the Department of Defense Education Activity, Bureau of Indian Education, and five U.S. extra-state jurisdictions. CCSSO provides leadership, advocacy, and technical assistance on major educational issues. The Council seeks member consensus on major educational issues and expresses their views to civic and professional organizations, federal agencies, Congress, and the public.
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