The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education's (Department) goal is to assist in the reduction of inappropriate or excessive use of long-term suspension and expulsion, including disparate rates of suspension and expulsion for students with disabilities and/or for students of color. Since June 2016, the Department has worked with over 30 identified schools/districts to provide a range of supports including technical assistance and professional development opportunities through a Professional Learning Network (PLN). This web page provides information about the Rethinking Discipline Initiative and PLN, and includes examples of additional resources related to supportive, inclusive, culturally responsive school climate and discipline practices and policies.
An Act Relative to Student Access to Educational Services and Exclusion from School — 2012
Student Discipline Regulations — 2014
Guidance on Updated Expectations for School and District Leaders Related to Student Discipline, associated with the 2022 Mental Health Law — in English | in Spanish
Special Education Planning and PolicyAccess information regarding federal requirements in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) pertaining to significant disproportionality in special education identification, placement, and discipline with regarding to race or ethnicity (see 34 CFR §§ 300.646–300.647)
Rethinking Discipline, Significant Disproportionality, and Indicators 4, 9, and 10
Professional Development Flyer: Alternatives to Exclusionary Practices Modules
Rethinking Discipline Professional Learning Network — 2024–2025 Update
Rethinking Discipline & Safe and Supportive Schools: 2024-2025 Professional Development Calendar
Methodology Used in Calculating Disparity or Significant Disproportionality in Disciplinary Suspension or Expulsion — Winter 2024-2025
More details and updates to be posted once confirmed later this winter.
Rethinking Discipline Professional Learning Network — 2023–2024 Update
Methodology Used in Calculating Disparity or Significant Disproportionality in Disciplinary Suspension or Expulsion — Winter 2023-2024
Rethinking Discipline Initiative Phase II Cohort I Action Plan Learning Series Flyer
Rethinking Discipline Action Plan Template (SY2025, Part I) — for Phase II Cohort I
Information From Prior Years
Additional Resources and Information
Last Updated: May 7, 2025