Syracuse has one of highest student suspension rates in nation, state attorney general finds

James T. Mulder

Syracuse, N.Y. -- The Syracuse City School District suspends students at a higher rate than almost every other district in the country and violates the legal rights of many youngsters facing discipline, according to an investigation by the state Attorney General's Office.

The investigation found black students are twice as likely as white students to be disciplined. It also determined the district is not protecting the rights of children with disabilities who are disciplined.

Thirty percent of all students were suspended at least once during the 2012-2013 school year, according to the investigation.

Details of the investigation are contained in a 44-page report sent by the AG's office to the district. Syracuse.com obtained a copy of the report. The report includes a proposed settlement that calls for the district to develop strategies to reduce suspensions, revise its code of conduct and clarify procedures students facing discipline are entitled to.

http://www.syracuse.com/news/index.ssf/2014/06/y_general_syracuse_has_one_of_the_highest_student_suspension_rates_in.html