Survey: Few teachers believe school discipline policies are too strict

A Teacher Tapp survey has revealed that despite widespread concerns about student behavior, most teachers find their school's discipline policies reasonable in addressing such issues. The survey was published on the organization's website on February 28.

According to the survey, only a small percentage of teachers perceive their school as too strict. Specifically, 5% of elementary and high school teachers and 4% of middle school teachers feel that their school's disciplinary policies are overly harsh. This view is consistent across different grade levels, indicating that the majority of educators do not consider excessive strictness a barrier to managing classroom behavior.

Research from the Thomas B. Fordham Institute suggests that changes in district discipline policies have complex effects on student outcomes. While these policy adjustments were linked to improved attendance among previously suspended students, there was no corresponding improvement in academic achievement. Additionally, many schools faced challenges in fully complying with bans on suspensions for low-level "conduct" offenses, highlighting difficulties in implementing such reforms.

EdTrust reports that school discipline policies significantly impact students' social, emotional, and academic development. Harsh disciplinary measures like corporal punishment and exclusionary practices can harm students' well-being and disproportionately affect marginalized groups. Conversely, evidence-based approaches such as restorative justice and social-emotional learning contribute to safer and more inclusive learning environments, supporting holistic student development.

According to its website, Teacher Tapp aims to transform education data collection by providing daily, real-time insights from teachers nationwide. Its research-driven approach seeks to amplify teacher voices in shaping policy, curriculum, and classroom environments.