Keep Kids in Class and End Unfair Suspensions

Students depend on consistent access to classroom learning to succeed, yet too many are removed from school for dress and grooming rule violations. Lost instructional time, from early grades through high school, can have lasting negative impacts on academic achievement and long term outcomes. Disparities in discipline further deepen inequities. In Massachusetts, Black girls are three times more likely to be disciplined and five times more likely to receive an out of school suspension than their white peers. These disparities are often worsened by unclear policies that can be applied inconsistently or in discriminatory ways. A 2022 United States Government Accountability Office report found that about 90 percent of dress codes nationwide restrict clothing associated with girls, compared to 69 percent that restrict items associated with boys.

Amendment #1389, filed as an outside section of the FY27 budget, would reduce the amount of time students miss in the classroom due to dress and grooming rule violations. It would ensure that students are not suspended solely for these violations and require that policies are clearly defined and fairly enforced to prevent discriminatory application. The amendment still allows schools to take appropriate action in cases involving bullying or harassment.

We have already started a message for you, click “Start Writing” above to add your own details and urge your State Representative to help ensure that the FY27 budget includes Amendment #1389.

Keeping students in the classroom is essential to their success and well being. Take one minute to speak up and support this important effort.

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