👉 What is one specific feature, rule, or practice you would put in place to make sure everyone feels welcomed and valued?

The numbers are reflecting systemic bias because the student body is made up of mostly white students however the total percentage of black students who are suspended are significantly higher. I certainly believe that whenever the numbers reflect an unusual disproportionate number between disciplinary actions of the same delinquency between black and white students suggest systemic racism. People who carried out these bias tend to use terms such a “ race neutral policies” as a means of deflecting or make excuses for this oppression. Sure I would agree that restorative policies must be implemented to correct it. Through dialog and training there can be a fair way to have rules and disciplinary policies without creating injustice for black student who are the minority group in the case.

The discipline numbers from Springfield schools show a major imbalance: Black students are getting suspended significantly more often than White students, despite making up a much smaller part of the student body. The school district says its rules are fair and the same for everyone, but how those rules are enforced often depends on race—which can go unnoticed. Restorative justice is a different approach that focuses on helping students take responsibility, confer, and rectify problems rather than just getting punished. Some people worry it might make discipline impotent, but research shows it can certainly improve school culture and reduce repeated misbehavior. If I were making decisions for the district, I’d suggest using a hybrid method, drifting from strict “zero-tolerance” rules and implementing more restorative practices to make discipline more equitable and effective for all students.