Young children in Pennsylvania, including those as young as preschoolers, are still being suspended or expelled from school despite evidence showing the harm that these practices cause. Such disciplinary actions carry a heavy racial bias and are used at significantly higher rates in preschool than in K-12 settings. Research shows that suspensions and expulsions increase the likelihood of academic failure, dropping out of high school, and even incarceration. Although federal and state agencies have called for reducing these practices, they remain legal and continue to harm our youngest learners.
 
My legislation would prohibit the suspension or expulsion of any child eight years old or younger unless the child poses an imminent threat to others. Additionally, it ensures no student of any age is excluded from in-person instruction for more than 10 school days without a proper disciplinary hearing.
 
This measure prioritizes keeping young students in the classroom, where they belong, to foster their growth and development. By limiting harmful and often biased disciplinary practices, we can create a more supportive educational environment that benefits students, families, and communities across Pennsylvania.
 
Please join me in co-sponsoring this important legislation to support our students and move closer towards closing the school-to-prison pipeline. Together, we can ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed in a supportive and inclusive educational environment.