Alternative to Suspension Program:
Adolescent Eduational Growth

For youth in middle and high school that have received an out of school suspension for breaking school policy or procedure.

The initiative of an alternative to suspension program will implement restorative practices inclusive and non-punitive ways to respond to student infractions to reduce student suspension rates. This will be done to foster a sense of school community and connections and build capacity for trust and/or reconciliation while reflecting on behavior that led to suspension and make an action plan for future behavior.
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The alternative to suspension program consists of three components; focus on social, emotional, and behavioral skills, continuation of academic expectations, and introduction to restorative practices

SYS will focus on developing positive social and cognitive skills to meet student's needs, develop skills to manage behaviors while ensuring that the student maintains academic progress and performance. SYS will support students by connecting them with additional services and resources in the community, when needed.

Students will increase insight into root causes for suspension and barriers to being successful at school. Students will participate in daily psychoeducational therapeutic groups and have opportunities for individual therapeutic support, as needed. Groups will focus on four key skill modules of mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.