April 10th, 2024-COLUMBUS, Ohio-Children’s Defense Fund-Ohio highlights the detrimental impact of exclusionary discipline, such as out-of-school suspensions and expulsions, labeling it as a contributor to the community-to-prison pipeline. Their report, “The 2024 State of School Discipline in Ohio,” reveals disproportionate punishment targeting Black, economically disadvantaged, and disabled students.
Analyzing data from state and federal education departments, they found a rise in disciplinary actions, particularly affecting economically disadvantaged students and Black females. The pandemic exacerbated existing challenges, including systemic disinvestment, generational poverty, and mental health issues. To address this equity issue, the organization advocates for culturally responsive training, hiring more specialists, and investing in community and student supports, including free school meals, school Medicaid, and the Community Learning Center Model.
