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Model Policy

Resolution In Favor of the Adoption of Non-Discriminatory School Discipline Policies

RESOLUTION OF THE [SCHOOL DISTRICT NAME] BOARD OF EDUCATION

Subject: Adoption of Non-Discriminatory School Discipline Policies in Compliance with Executive Order Dated April 23, 2025

WHEREAS, the Executive Order issued by President Donald J. Trump on April 23, 2025, directs local educational agencies (LEAs) to eliminate school discipline policies and practices based on discriminatory “equity” ideology, as defined by the Order, to ensure safety and order in American classrooms;

WHEREAS, the Executive Order rescinds guidance that promotes disparate-impact frameworks, such as the 2014 Dear Colleague Letter and 2023 Department of Education and Department of Justice guidance, which encouraged discipline decisions based on racial statistics rather than objective student behavior;

WHEREAS, the [School District Name] Board of Education is committed to fostering a safe and productive learning environment for all students, free from unlawful discrimination and disruptive behavior;

WHEREAS, the Executive Order mandates that the Secretary of Education issue new guidance within 30 days to ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, prohibiting racial discrimination in school discipline, and requires LEAs to adopt policies that prioritize student safety and objective behavior-based discipline;

WHEREAS, the [School District Name] Board of Education holds high expectations for every student’s academic achievement and personal conduct, recognizing that classroom teachers, as the primary stewards of the learning environment, are best suited to make discipline decisions based on individual student behavior, supported by robust administrative backing to ensure fair, consistent, and effective outcomes that promote a safe and thriving educational setting;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the [School District Name] Board of Education hereby adopts the following measures to comply with the Executive Order and ensure a safe and non-discriminatory educational environment:

  • Review and Revision of Discipline Policies: Within 60 days of the issuance of the new guidance from the Secretary of Education, the Superintendent shall review and revise all existing school discipline policies to eliminate any practices or behavior modification techniques based on discriminatory equity ideology, as defined by the Executive Order. Revised policies shall:
    • Prioritize objective, behavior-based criteriawatermark criteria for disciplinary actions, such as suspensions, expulsions, or referrals to law enforcement.
    • Prohibit the use of racial statistics or disparate-impact frameworks as a basis for discipline decisions.
    • Ensure compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, protecting against racial discrimination.
  • Training for Staff: The Superintendent shall implement mandatory training for all teachers, administrators, and staff within 90 days of the revised policies’ adoption. Training shall focus on:
    • Applying discipline consistently and fairly based on student behavior.
    • Recognizing and addressing disruptive or dangerous behavior promptly to maintain classroom safety.
    • Understanding legal obligations under Title VI to avoid discriminatory practices.
  • Elimination of Under-Reporting and Disparate Discipline: The Superintendent shall establish protocols within 60 days to ensure accurate reporting and response to disciplinary infractions, addressing past practices of under-reporting or exercising disparate discipline based on race rather than the nature of the infraction. These protocols shall:
    • Require documentation of all disciplinary incidents based solely on the specific behavior or infraction, ensuring transparency and consistency.
    • Prohibit adjustments to discipline practices driven by fear of negative impacts from federal or state departments of education, such as perceived racial disparities in discipline data.
    • Include oversight mechanisms, such as regular audits by the administration, to verify that discipline is applied uniformly and reported accurately, safeguarding the district’s compliance with Title VI and protecting the safety of all students.
  • Community Engagement: The Superintendent shall organize at least one public forum within 90 days to inform parents, guardians, and community members about the revised discipline policies, emphasizing the district’s commitment to safety, fairness, and non-discrimination.
  • Data Collection and Reporting: The Superintendent shall ensure that discipline-related data is collected and analyzed solely to monitor compliance with Title VI and the Executive Order, without using racial disparities as a basis for policy adjustments. A report on the status of discipline policies and their impact on student safety and achievement shall be submitted to the Board annually.
  • Model Policy Adoption: The Superintendent shall evaluate the model school discipline policies provided by the Secretary of Education, as mandated by the Executive Order, and recommend their adoption or adaptation to the Board within 120 days of their release, ensuring alignment with American values, student safety, and educational excellence.
  • Coordination with State Authorities: The Superintendent shall collaborate with the State Educational Agency and other relevant state officials to ensure alignment with state policies and compliance with the Executive Order’s directives.
  • Prohibition on Federal Fund Misuse: The Superintendent shall ensure that no federal funds are used to support programs, activities, or non-profit organizations that promote discriminatory equity-ideology-based discipline or behavior modification techniques, as outlined in the Executive Order.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the [School District Name] Board of Education reaffirms its commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of all students, supporting teachers and administrators in maintaining orderly classrooms, and fostering an educational environment rooted in fairness, accountability, and respect for all.

Adopted this [Day] of [Month], 2025, by the [School District Name] Board of Education.

Signed:

[Board Chair/President Name]

[Chair/President], [School District Name] Board of Education

[Superintendent Name]

Superintendent of Schools