Two observations about the media coverage of the 2005-2006 Annual Study of Suspensions and Expulsions:
1. Some have bought the idea that the Positive Behavior Support program will curb the discipline problem in our schools. Unfortunately, there is no evidence to support the belief that, “school districts that use the positive behavioral support system, which promotes rewards instead of punishments, seem to have reduced suspensions.” That is a claim that requires proof of causation, which state officials do not have. For this reason, we should be weary of forthcoming efforts to “scale it up and implement it statewide.”
2. The media has not reported on the amazing reduction of short-term suspensions in charter schools. According to the report, short-term suspensions in charter schools decreased by 30 percent from 2004-2005 to 2005-2006. Short-term suspensions received by Black students decreased 34.3 percent and suspensions received by White students decreased 19.9 percent. For the 2005-2006 school year, male students in district schools averaged 3.1 short-term suspensions for every ten enrolled students, while male students in charter schools averaged 1.0 suspension for every ten enrolled students.
