NEW YORK (AP) -- New York City schools have new rules that will keep students who commit low-level infractions in class. According to the revised "Discipline Code," students can no longer be suspended for one-time disorderly behavior such as leaving the school building without permission. Low-level infractions can still be punished with after-school activities and a visit to the...
View full sizeNew York City School Chancellor Dennis Walcott is pictured during a visit to Staten Island in this June 6, 2012. The city Department of Education has announced new rules it says will cut the number of students who are suspended for breaking rules. (Staten Island Advance/Anthony DePrimo)
NEW YORK (AP) -- New York City schools have new rules that will keep students who commit low-level infractions in class.
According to the revised "Discipline Code," students can no longer be suspended for one-time disorderly behavior such as leaving the school building without permission.
Low-level infractions can still be punished with after-school activities and a visit to the principal's office.
Department of Education spokeswoman Margie Feinberg said the changes will give students a chance to learn from their mistakes.
Students can still be suspended for disruptive behavior like vandalizing school property.
The City Council had lobbied for the changes.
The New York Civil Liberties Union lauded the new rules.
The United Federal of Teachers told The New York Times the changes will require that educators get more training and support from guidance counselors.