Alternatives To Suspension

Why should I do it:

Suspending kids is very unproductive for academics
Some kids get suspended on purpose to get out of work or away from something they do not want to cope or deal with
Suspensions are not an effective deterrent for many kids, who do not see it as a significant consequence or negative stimulus
Providing alternatives to suspensions can be much more effective in getting students’ behavior to change
There are many alternatives that motivate students better than suspending them

When should I do it:

When a student gets into trouble and suspended frequently
When a student is trying to get suspended on purpose or to get out of something
When students really need the instruction but a consequence or discipline is warranted
When suspensions do not seem to be doing anything and are ineffective

How do I do it:

There are various alternatives to suspension and ways to carry them out.
Always use a neutral tone and do not allow yourself to be drawn into power struggles.
Alternatives may be discussed with a student or students before implementing them
Some common alternatives include:
- in-school suspension
- school service (for example, assisting custodial staff with after school clean-up, lunch clean-up, etc)
- mini course
- parent supervision
- counseling
- community service
- behavior monitoring
- restitution
- problem solving or behavior contract
- alternative programming
- loss of privileges (like lunch, recess, social time, etc)
- time out
- detention (before or after school)
- mentoring (with a teacher, counselor, or other staff member before or after school)
- behavioral contracts
- send homes
- referral to community mental health services
Refer to the resources below for more ideas and implementation

Resources & Support for technique: