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Education Laws and Regulations

603 CMR 53.00

Student Discipline — Effective July 1, 2014

Section:

  • 53.01: Purpose and Scope
  • 53.02: Definitions
  • 53.03: Policies and Procedures
  • 53.04: Investigation of Disciplinary Incidents
  • 53.05: Alternatives to Suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.06: Notice of Suspension and Hearing under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.07: Emergency Removal under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.08: Principal's Hearing under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.09: Superintendent's Hearing under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.10: In-School Suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾
  • 53.11: Exclusion from Extracurricular Activities and School-Sponsored Events
  • 53.12: Disciplinary Offenses under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H or 37H½
  • 53.13: Education Services and Academic Progress under M.G.L. c. 71, §§ 37H, 37H½, 37H¾
  • 53.14: Student Suspension and Expulsion Data Collection and Reporting
  • View All Sections

The Student Discipline Regulations were approved by the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education on April 29, 2014. They are effective July 1, 2014.


53.05: Alternatives to Suspension under M.G.L. c. 71, § 37H¾

In every case of student misconduct for which suspension may be imposed, a principal shall exercise discretion in deciding the consequence for the offense; consider ways to re-engage the student in learning; and avoid using long-term suspension from school as a consequence until alternatives have been tried. Alternatives may include the use of evidence-based strategies and programs such as mediation, conflict resolution, restorative justice, and positive interventions and supports.

Regulatory Authority:
M.G.L. c.69, s. 1B & c.71, s. 37H & 37H 3/4


Disclaimer:
For an official copy of these regulations, please contact the State House Bookstore, at 617-727-2834 or visit Massachusetts State Bookstore.

Last Updated: August 25, 2014

 
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