In late November 2022, Gwinnett Schools in Georgia finally admitted to implementation errors of their disciplinary policies after a series of distressing incidents took place at schools in the county, including the fatal shooting of a high school student near his school. In fact, between August and October of 2021, there were 250 disciplinary tribunals for the most serious rule violations out of 473 reported incidents. But, in the same time frame for 2022, there were over 638 incidents and only 31 tribunals. School Board members don't understand how this year could have had more incidents but fewer corrective consequences.

What Went Wrong?

As teachers began to leave Gwinnett Schools for other districts and counties in Georgia, administrators became aware of the disparities between actual classroom behaviors versus what they believed to be happening in classrooms. According to many instructors, the students' behavior in class was nearly uncontrollable after the beginning of the pandemic.

To retain teachers, the district decided to reform its current disciplinary policy. For instance, the new policy stated that students should only be suspended or expelled for the most severe infractions. Additionally, the district made its educators aware that they were hoping to implement restorative practices for other infractions, but they failed to train instructors on how to implement proper restorative practices. As such, district staff became confused with how to abide by the new policy standards, lowering the number of students who were given disciplinary tribunals.

How Will Gwinnett Schools Remedy the Situation?

Gwinnett School District is trying to remedy the confusion by holding meetings with community members, district staff, and students to discuss discipline and safety in their schools. They are hoping the information the individuals provide will help them launch the new correction efforts at the beginning of 2023.

How A Skilled Attorney Advisor Can Help

When you are notified that your student is accused of misconduct and facing disciplinary charges, you might feel overwhelmed, wondering who to turn to and whether your child's future will remain intact. Attorney Joseph D. Lento has spent a large portion of his career helping students defend themselves against disciplinary charges. He is uniquely qualified to advise you and your student on the proper course of action for their defense, guaranteeing you the best possible outcome for their case.

Working with an attorney advisor can mean the difference between being expelled and receiving detention. Additionally, it should be noted that disciplinary sanctions such as suspension and expulsion will be noted on your student's final transcript. Meaning when they go to apply to college, they will have to explain the issue in their application or interview, which could make it hard to gain admission. But don't worry, Lento Law Firm can help. Call 888-535-3686 today or schedule a consultation online.