Community demands action on school discipline disparities

During a recent government meeting, key discussions centered around the ongoing efforts to address discipline disproportionality within Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) and the effectiveness of current initiatives aimed at improving school climate.

Virtual speaker Debra Keether commended the district for its commitment to \"courageous conversations,\" noting that over 9,000 staff members have been trained in this initiative. She expressed enthusiasm about the return of the student summit, highlighting active student participation. However, Keether raised concerns about the repetitiveness of recent reports on courageous conversations, suggesting a need for clearer, more quantifiable updates on specific actions and future plans. She emphasized the importance of showcasing student input and providing context for suspension data to better understand trends over time.

Angela Harris, another virtual speaker, addressed the lack of response to a public records request for monthly discipline disproportionality reports. She questioned the root causes of discipline disparities and sought clarity on how schools are tracking activities aimed at improving climate and reducing disproportionality. Harris also inquired about stakeholder engagement, asking how parents and community members are involved in discussions about discipline policies and practices.

The meeting underscored the district's ongoing challenges in addressing equity in school discipline and the need for more transparent communication regarding the effectiveness of current strategies. As the district continues to navigate these issues, the input from community members and stakeholders remains crucial in shaping future initiatives.