December 18, 2018
Statement on the Report Issued by the Federal Commission on School Safety

Chiefs for Change today issued the following statement on the Final Report of the Federal Commission on School Safety:

The Federal Commission on School Safety appropriately highlights the importance of a positive, supportive school climate as well as the need for improved access to school-based mental health and counseling services. Federal support and funding is essential; Title IV funds, for example, can and should be used for these purposes.

Regarding the recommendation to rescind the guidance on school discipline issued in 2014 by the U.S. Departments of Education and Justice, we believe that fair and effective discipline practices are at the heart of a positive school culture. There is no need for schools to discriminate when working to keep students safe. Discipline practices should be administered fairly and equitably, in ways that are least disruptive to teaching and learning. Policies should promote a safe and welcoming environment.

There is nothing more important than keeping students safe. We must rely on facts, not fear; evidence, not ideology. We cannot allow political disagreements among adults to result in unsafe and unjust schools for kids.