In every case of student misconduct for which suspension may be imposed, a principal shall exercise discretion in deciding the consequencefor the offense; consider ways to reengage the student in learning; and avoid using long-term suspension from school as a consequence until alternatives have been tried. Alternatives may include the use of evidence-based strategies and programs such as mediation, conflict resolution, restorative justice, and positive interventions and supports.

(e) Subject to appropriation, any city, town or school district, by vote of its school committee, may develop and implement an action plan to create and maintain the safe and supportive schools framework. The action plan shall be developed by the school principal, in consultation with the school council established under section 59C of chapter 71, and shall be incorporated into the annual school improvement plan required under section 1I; provided, however, that the district superintendent may approve an alternative process and schedule for developing school action plans. Nothing in this section shall be construed as to limit the ability of the school principal to appoint a team to develop the school’s action plan; provided, however, that such team shall include a broad representation of the school and local community and the principal shall attempt to include teachers and other school personnel, parents, students and representatives from community-based agencies and providers.

School action plans shall be designed to address the areas of need identified through the use of the self-assessment tool described in subsection (d) and shall include the following: (i) strategies and initiatives for addressing the areas of need identified by the assessment; (ii) a timeline for implementing the strategies and initiatives; (iii) outcome goals and indicators for evaluating the effectiveness of the strategies and initiatives set forth in the plan, which may include attendance and graduation rates, bullying incidences, number of student suspensions, expulsions and office referrals, truancy and tardiness rates, time spent on learning and other measures of school success; and (iv) a process and schedule for reviewing the plan annually and updating it at least once every 3 years. School action plans shall be published on the school district’s website.

Summarizes the PBIS framework