In a groundbreaking move, a new California law known as "Keep Students in School" (SB 274) is set to revolutionize disciplinary practices in public schools, making it tougher to suspend or expel students in grades 6-12 based on the concept of "willful defiance." Introduced by state Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley), this legislation will come into effect from July 1, 2024, until July 1, 2029.Willful defiance, as defined by the policy, includes actions that disrupt school activities or demonstrate defiance of authority, whether it be supervisors, teachers, or administrators. The law recognizes that there are exceptions, allowing superintendents or principals to pursue suspensions for specific actions such as physical injury, unlawful possession or use of an intoxicant, and attempted damage to school property.
Building on the foundation of Senator Skinner's earlier legislation, SB 419, which permanently eliminated willful defiance suspensions in grades TK to 5 and prohibited them in grades 6 to 8 until 2025, SB 274 aims to extend these prohibitions to grades 6-12.
In addition to the suspension ban, the law mandates that school employees utilize intervention methods, both in-school and through external support, and document these actions within five days of the incident. This proactive approach encourages educators to address behavioral issues promptly, emphasizing alternative strategies to maintain a conducive learning environment.
The "Keep Students in School" law reflects a broader shift towards reshaping school disciplinary measures, prioritizing a supportive and intervention-focused approach over punitive actions. As California takes this progressive step, the education landscape stands poised for positive transformation.