On Saturday, November 7 at 10am, At-Large Councilmember David Grosso, chairperson of the Committee on Education will host an Educator Townhall focused on the curbing the school-to-prison pipeline.

As we all know, the adverse effects of out-of-school suspension and expulsion on a student can be profound. While there is no research out that indicates that suspensions improve a child’s behavior or make schools safer, many studies have shown that students who are suspended or expelled are more prone to low academic achievement and landing in the juvenile justice system. 

Earlier this year, the Council took a significant stance to end the suspension and expulsion of our youngest students. Turning to older students, the Committee feels it's important to hear from teachers and school leaders about what's working in their classrooms and schools, and how policymakers can better support their efforts to end the school to prison pipeline in the District of Columbia.

This will not be a traditional hearing, but rather an opportunity to share ideas and discuss potential next steps. Please join us and share your voice. Without our educators, we know that this problem cannot be solved.