An Ohio state law is encouraging a positive approach to discipline in schools by focusing on prevention over punishment, according to Education Slice.
The law, known as the Supporting Alternatives for Fair Education Act, sets standards for school safety officers and limits the use of suspensions for young students. It also promotes the use of positive behavior interventions and supports.
Ohio’s Board of Education is responsible for implementing these standards in grades K-5. Schools that adopt the positive approach receive extra points on their state report card.
Studies show the approach can improve student behavior, concentration, achievement and engagement. Plus, Ohio’s efforts to implement positive discipline have resulted in lower rates of chronic absenteeism compared to schools that have not adopted the approach.
Still, chronic absenteeism remains a critical issue in the state. Ohio’s Department of Education has increased its efforts to address the problem, including the implementation of the Chronic Absenteeism Improvement Indicator. Ohio’s adoption of the positive approach to discipline is a step toward improving learning and increasing student engagement.
Education Slice
