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Brockton Schools Report Sharp Decline in Suspensions, Superintendent Cites Restorative Practices
Summary
Superintendent reported a nearly 50% drop in total suspensions at Brockton Public Schools compared with 2021‑22, crediting staff training, restorative practices, school‑based planning and alternatives to suspension.
The Brockton superintendent reported on Sept. 16 that district suspension rates have declined substantially since the 2021‑22 school year, and credited staff training, restorative practices and alternatives to suspension for the change.
"During the 2021‑22 school year, BPS had 3,338 total suspensions across all schools," Superintendent Dr. Thigliani said. "During last school year 2024‑25, this number was 1,565, which is a 47% decrease over FY22." He said similar declines were visible at Brockton High School.
Nut graf: The district attributed the reductions to several initiatives: more intensive training on discipline regulations, expanded restorative‑justice programming, school‑based planning to intervene earlier with at‑risk students, and the use of alternatives such as the Independence Academy of North River Collaborative for 10‑day placements.
The superintendent said the district has emphasized multi‑tiered supports for social‑emotional learning and behavior, and that assistant and associate principals have implemented training at school level. "Our new beginning center for restorative justice program also supports students who are working to repair harm and rebuild relationships," he said.
The district also cited the Independence Academy of North River Collaborative as an alternative to out‑of‑school suspension for students dealing with drug and alcohol issues.
Discussion versus action: The presentation was informational; no binding policy change was proposed or voted on at the meeting. Committee members asked clarifying questions about whether declines applied to both in‑school and out‑of‑school suspensions; the superintendent said the district saw declines across both categories.
Clarifying details: The superintendent described the 47% decrease in total suspensions districtwide and a 49% decrease at Brockton High School comparing 2021‑22 to 2024‑25. He noted that the COVID years are not valid comparisons because of school closures.
Ending: The committee thanked staff for the work and asked for more detailed follow‑up material; the superintendent offered to provide additional breakdowns and said staff will continue training and restorative approaches.
