Many schools use exclusionary discipline—such as suspensions and expulsions—with the intention of reducing misbehavior and improving school safety. However, research shows that the use of exclusionary discipline ultimately increases misbehavior, undermines school climate, reduces achievement, and increases dropout and incarceration rates. In addition, long-standing research documents the disproportionate use of punitive discipline practices for students of color and students with disabilities. As an alternative, many schools have sought to replace harsh disciplinary policies with restorative practices.
