Contact:
Mara Powell
mpowell@kyyouth.org

Statement by Dr. Terry Brooks, executive director of Kentucky Youth Advocates

LOUISVILLE, KY – The decision by the Jefferson County Board of Education to “suspend suspensions” for our youngest children is far more than a simple change in disciplinary procedures. Instead, it is an affirmation of Superintendent Pollio’s persistent efforts to create a student-centric school system.

This change in disciplinary processes will create a ripple effect with an impact than cannot be overestimated. Not only will it directly address troubling issues of equity in discipline, it will be a lever in closing achievement disparities as well. I am also convinced that this change will ripple much more broadly and contribute in the immediate to enhanced school climates for all children, especially those at the elementary level.

Putting student interests above adult convenience is always the ethical challenge for schools. Tonight, the JCBE took a significant move to do just that. As Executive Director of Kentucky Youth Advocates and as a grandfather of four JCPS students, I salute the Board and the Superintendent for this long-needed and thoughtful change in how business gets done.