State Policy’s Role in Reversing Trend toward Punitive Discipline

State policymakers are in an ideal position to address disproportionate discipline policies and practices in order to improve school equity and climate. West Virginia and Philadelphia provide examples of how cooperation between state boards, local law enforcement officials, the mental health community, and educators can lead to success in school discipline policy reform. Reversing punitive discipline policies has the potential to keep students on the track to success in their college and careers.