In his March 1 column, Victor Joecks suggested that declining suspension rates in the Clark County School District equate to a decline in safety. He questioned whether this trend stems from improved behavior or “pressure” to avoid discipline.
I am here to confirm that student behavior throughout the district is improving because our research- and evidence-based approach to discipline has evolved. In short, our schools are safer.
The district is making progress by identifying at-risk student behaviors early and intervening before they escalate. In doing so, we are addressing the root causes of disruption rather than just managing the symptoms.
Our data show measurable improvement in the first semester of this year compared with the first semester of last year: Fighting is down 18 percent, threats against our students and school communities have decreased by 11 percent and theft and robbery have seen a 10 percent decline.
We’re proud of our team’s dedication to our students and of the progress we are seeing. Our goal is to ensure our schools are safe, and our focus is on learning.
