What's Happening?
Massachusetts has seen a significant decline in out-of-school suspensions following the implementation of Chapter 222 in 2012, which aimed to reduce exclusionary discipline methods in schools. The law required due process and data reporting for student
discipline, leading to a decrease in suspensions from nearly 28,500 in 2018 to less than 22,000 in 2025. However, emergency removals, which allow immediate student removal for severe behavior, have increased from 1,500 in 2018 to over 3,900 in 2025. This trend has raised concerns among racial justice and education advocates, who argue that schools may be using emergency removals to bypass suspension laws and avoid implementing alternative discipline methods.
Why It's Important?
The increase in emergency removals highlights ongoing challenges in addressing student behavior without resorting to exclusionary practices. This trend is particularly concerning for students of color and those with disabilities, who continue to face higher rates of disciplinary action. The reliance on emergency removals may exacerbate educational disparities and contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline. Advocates emphasize the need for adequate resources and training to implement restorative justice and other alternative discipline methods effectively. The situation underscores the importance of systemic accountability and the need for comprehensive support to address behavioral issues in schools.
What's Next?
The Massachusetts Teachers Association has advocated for increased funding to support alternative discipline strategies, including a proposal by Governor Maura Healey to allocate an additional $100 million to public schools. This funding could help districts hire more behavioral support staff and reduce reliance on emergency removals. The state continues to work with school districts to develop practices that minimize the use of emergency removals and suspensions. Ongoing legislative efforts aim to further restrict the use of suspensions and expulsions, particularly for younger students, though these measures face opposition from some school administrators.
