The Negative Impact Of School Suspensions On Student Outcomes

Chloe Fitzgerald

4 min read

Post on May 03, 2025

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School Suspension: A Definition

Before we delve into the negative impacts, let's define what we mean by "school suspension." School suspension refers to the temporary removal of a student from their regular educational setting as a disciplinary measure. This can take two main forms: in-school suspension (ISS), where the student remains on school grounds but is separated from regular classes, and out-of-school suspension (OSS), where the student is removed from school entirely for a specified period. Both forms of school suspensions have detrimental effects on students' lives.

Academic Consequences of School Suspensions

School suspensions inflict significant damage on a student's academic progress. The lost instructional time directly contributes to a decline in academic performance and increases the likelihood of dropping out.

• Increased Absenteeism and Declining Grades: Frequent suspensions lead to increased absenteeism, resulting in falling grades and credit deficiency. Studies consistently show a strong correlation between suspension frequency and a decline in GPA. Missed classes also negatively impact standardized test scores, further hindering future educational opportunities.

• Disruption of Learning Continuity: Catching up on missed material after a suspension is incredibly challenging. Students often lack the support and resources needed for independent learning during this time, falling further behind their peers. The disruption to their learning trajectory can be significant and long-lasting.

• Increased Risk of Dropping Out: The cumulative effect of academic setbacks caused by school suspensions significantly increases the risk of students dropping out of school. Statistics reveal a clear link between frequent suspensions and higher school dropout rates. Dropping out has devastating long-term consequences, limiting future opportunities and increasing the risk of poverty and unemployment.

Social-Emotional Consequences of School Suspensions

Beyond academics, school suspensions have profound social-emotional consequences for students. The experience can be deeply isolating and damaging to their sense of self-worth and belonging.

• Isolation, Alienation, and Stigmatization: Suspension often leads to feelings of isolation, alienation, and stigmatization. Students may feel ashamed, rejected, and disconnected from their school community. This can significantly impact their self-esteem and mental health, potentially leading to increased behavioral problems.

• Damaged Relationships: Suspensions damage relationships with teachers and peers. Reintegrating into the school community after a suspension can be difficult, impacting social skills development and creating further challenges for the student. The loss of positive relationships within the school environment exacerbates the negative effects of suspension.

• Increased Risk of Juvenile Justice Involvement: A concerning trend shows a correlation between school suspensions and involvement in the juvenile justice system. Frequent suspensions contribute to the "school-to-prison pipeline," a cycle where students are pushed out of school and into the criminal justice system. This is especially true for students of color, perpetuating systemic inequalities.

Long-Term Consequences of School Suspensions

The negative impacts of school suspensions extend far beyond the immediate consequences, shaping a student's future trajectory in significant ways.

• Reduced Educational Attainment and Employment: Students with a history of suspensions are more likely to have reduced educational attainment and limited employment opportunities. This translates to lower earning potential and decreased economic stability throughout their lives. The impact on college admissions and career prospects can be substantial.

• Increased Risk of Incarceration: Studies have shown a strong link between school suspensions and future incarceration. Students who experience frequent suspensions are at a higher risk of involvement in the criminal justice system, contributing to the societal costs associated with incarceration.

• Negative Impact on Overall Well-being: The cumulative effects of school suspensions can have a profound negative impact on a student's overall well-being and quality of life, affecting their mental and physical health for years to come. Addressing the root causes of behavioral issues, rather than resorting to suspension, is crucial for improving student outcomes.

Rethinking School Suspensions and Finding Better Solutions

School suspensions have demonstrably significant negative impacts on students' academic progress, social-emotional development, and future life outcomes. It's time to move beyond this ineffective and inequitable disciplinary practice. We must embrace alternative approaches that support student learning and well-being. Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), restorative justice practices, and trauma-informed approaches offer more effective and equitable solutions. These methods focus on addressing the root causes of behavioral issues, fostering positive relationships, and promoting a supportive school climate.

Let's advocate for reducing school suspensions and implementing alternatives to school suspensions that prioritize student success. Improving school disciplinary practices requires a systemic shift towards more compassionate and effective approaches. By working together, we can create schools that are safer, more supportive, and more equitable for all students. Let’s commit to creating a future where every student has the opportunity to thrive, free from the damaging cycle of school suspensions.