AB 420
As many of you know, LAUSD is no longer allowing suspensions of students for "willful defiance." The California State Assembly is now seeking to put this abolition into law statewide. While there is merit to the argument that "willful defiance" is an overly-broad and vague category for misbehavior, complete elimination of it as a reason for discipline is also bad. We all know students who will up-end the culture and climate of a classroom or an entire school with their behavior, behavior that serves no purpose other than to disrupt. These students may not be causing physical harm to themselves or other students or staff at their school. They may not be causing damage to the campus. But their actions make it hard for teachers to create and foster an atmosphere of learning and mutual respect.
We feel that this is the camel's nose under the tent of the state pushing its way into teachers' and administrators' management of classrooms and schools. Next, they may decide that teachers no longer have the right to suspend a student from their classrooms. This is an important right retained by teachers for their safety and the safety of the students in their charge.
Instead, what needs to be done is perhaps a more specific definition of exactly what behaviors constitute "willful defiance." This definition can then give administrators and school district authorities confidence that they are, indeed, acting in the best interest of all students when acting to curb the misbehaviors of a few.
Take some time to educate yourself about this proposed legislation, and consider writing or calling the office of Steve Fox with your input.
Pass this information along to others who may not be on my distribution list. And, as always, thanks for all you do!
--
Dwight
Young
We feel that this is the camel's nose under the tent of the state pushing its way into teachers' and administrators' management of classrooms and schools. Next, they may decide that teachers no longer have the right to suspend a student from their classrooms. This is an important right retained by teachers for their safety and the safety of the students in their charge.
Instead, what needs to be done is perhaps a more specific definition of exactly what behaviors constitute "willful defiance." This definition can then give administrators and school district authorities confidence that they are, indeed, acting in the best interest of all students when acting to curb the misbehaviors of a few.
Take some time to educate yourself about this proposed legislation, and consider writing or calling the office of Steve Fox with your input.
Pass this information along to others who may not be on my distribution list. And, as always, thanks for all you do!
--
Dwight
Young
| organizing_report.pdf |