Schools Reinvent Readmission Process for Expelled Students

In a recent school board meeting, Director of Student Services Mariam Adlot presented a comprehensive overview of the expulsion and readmission processes for students within the district. The discussion highlighted the importance of reintegrating expelled students into the educational environment, focusing on their strengths and areas for growth.

Adlot emphasized the district's commitment to an equitable approach, ensuring that factors such as race, cultural background, and socioeconomic status do not dictate a student's success. She outlined the Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) framework employed by the district, which addresses the holistic needs of students, including their social, emotional, and academic well-being.

Over the past five years, the district has seen fluctuations in expulsion rates, with a notable increase following the return to in-person learning post-pandemic. Last school year, 13 students were expelled, primarily for serious violations, including violence and possession of controlled substances. The demographic data revealed that a significant majority of those expelled were Hispanic, raising concerns about equity in disciplinary actions.

The presentation also detailed the rehabilitation plans required for expelled students, which include counseling, community service, and participation in culturally relevant support groups, such as the National Compadres Network. This initiative aims to provide students with a supportive environment to address their behaviors and reintegrate successfully into the school community.

Adlot shared insights into the readmission process, which involves collaboration with families and support teams to assess students' readiness to return. She noted that while many students successfully reintegrate, some may struggle, highlighting the need for ongoing support and monitoring.

Board members expressed gratitude for the thorough presentation and acknowledged the challenges faced by students, particularly those with disabilities, who represented a significant portion of expulsions. The discussion underscored the importance of proactive measures to prevent expulsions and support students in overcoming personal and academic challenges.

Overall, the meeting reinforced the district's dedication to fostering an inclusive and supportive educational environment, aiming to transform disciplinary moments into opportunities for growth and learning.