Spring ISD outlines strategies to reduce student discipline issues by 10% by 2027

The Work Session held on March 4, 2025, focused on updates regarding the strategic plan for student discipline within the district, emphasizing equity and student well-being. The meeting featured presentations from Dr. Efrain Allevo, the Assistant Superintendent of Student Success, who outlined the district's goals and initiatives aimed at improving disciplinary practices.

Dr. Allevo began by highlighting the alignment of the district's strategic priorities with its goals for equity and student well-being. He reported that by the spring of 2027, the district aims to reduce total disciplinary infractions by 10%, with a target of a 5% reduction for the current year. Specific goals include a 10% decrease in suspension rates for African American male students and students receiving special education services.

Key initiatives discussed included revising the student code of conduct to enhance equity, which involved collaboration with community members, student groups, and various departments. Dr. Allevo noted that the first meeting for the upcoming year's code of conduct had recently taken place.

The meeting also addressed the importance of counseling services, particularly in response to substance abuse issues, including vaping, which has become a significant concern across all grade levels. The district is implementing both individual and group counseling programs to support students.

Training for administrators was another focal point, aimed at ensuring equitable discipline practices across schools. This included de-escalation training and the introduction of the C.A.R.E.S. program, which emphasizes student-centered classroom management.

Social-emotional learning has been integrated into the school day, with reports being provided to assistant superintendents to monitor implementation and effectiveness. Additionally, the district conducts regular reviews of disciplinary consequences to ensure alignment with the student code of conduct and to address any discrepancies in data reporting.

Dr. Allevo concluded by mentioning the creation of age-appropriate discipline posters for elementary, middle, and high school students, designed to remind them of behavioral expectations.

Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to fostering an equitable and supportive environment for all students, with a clear focus on reducing disciplinary issues through strategic planning and community involvement.