State Working On Guidelines To Keep Kids In School

BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts is seeking public comment while it crafts guidelines aimed at keeping kids in school by reducing suspensions and expulsions.

The guidelines are part of a law passed in 2012 that requires public and charter school principals to keep students out of school only as a last resort. The proposed guidelines require school officials to notify parents of suspensions, allow students to appeal and let those suspended complete assignments.

The public can comment until March 7. The new rules will take effect July 1.

Advocates say taking students out of the classroom increases the risk of being held back a grade, dropping out of school or landing in the juvenile justice system. But some argue that suspending students keeps order in the classroom.