According to a study done by the University of California-Los Angeles’ Civil Rights Project, Missouri Public Schools rank #1 for the highest suspension of black elementary school students. Missouri’s gap between suspension rates of black and white elementary students also is the nation’s largest.
One study found that students suspended or expelled for a discretionary violation are nearly three times more likely to be in contact with the juvenile justice system the following year.
In this episode of Up to Date, we learn what actions the Kansas City Public Schools is taking to improve the situation.
Guests:
- Tanya Gilbert, executive director of student support and community services for Kansas City (Mo.) Public Schools
- Luis Cordoba, executive director of student intervention programs, Kansas City (Mo.) Public Schools
- Tim Lloyd, education reporter, St. Louis Public Radio
