Systemic Change for Effective Discipline Reform

Abstract

This capstone examines school disciplinary actions, the harms of punitive discipline, alternative approaches to disciplinary practices, and how to create meaningful and equitable reform. The alternative approaches explored are Restorative Practices, School-Wide Positive Behaviour Interventions and Supports, and trauma-informed practices. Many studies have found that traditional disciplinary methods are disproportionately applied to marginalized groups, ineffective at improving academic outcomes, and unsuccessful at supporting meaningful behavioural change. This capstone addresses the following question: If punitive discipline is harmful, disproportionately applied, and ineffective in producing meaningful behavioural change, what alternative approaches can schools adopt, and what conditions are necessary to ensure that these approaches are implemented equitably? This capstone recommends three levels of change (system, school, and classroom) to facilitate equitable practices in schools