Solutions Not Suspension measure critical for schools

In New York, we’re ready to collectively respond to systemic inequities inherent in historical school discipline practices. The Solutions Not Suspension legislation (S3036A/A3873) calls for primary prevention practices such as student-centered restorative justice to address student conflict.

The state Department of Education adopted the Culturally Responsive-Sustaining Framework to lay deep foundations for educating students effectively and equitably. The framework recognizes that culture plays an important role in teaching to the strengths students bring to the classroom for cultivating positive outcomes.

The education department also released revised New York Social Emotional Learning Benchmarks. Developing students’ social-emotional learning needs as part of the academic content being taught creates safe, equitable and engaging school environments for all students to thrive.

Social-emotional learning is the process through which students and adults acquire and effectively apply the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to manage emotions, set and achieve goals, feel and show empathy, establish and maintain positive relationships and make responsible decisions.

These are skills that students need to work effectively with others for success in school and in life.

The Solutions Not Suspension legislation will help schools invest in resources that create safe school environments and assist students in their learning.

On Friday, the fourth annual International Social-Emotional Learning Day will be held to bridge the connection between social-emotional learning and the work that families and educators do every day.

This is an opportunity for school communities and families to engage and share best practices for all who sign up at SELDay.org.

Susan M. Alviene East Greenbush Social Emotional Learning Alliance for New York