Alternative to Suspension Program:
Adolescent Educational Growth

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

The Alternative to Suspension Program is an initiative designed to provide arestorative and inclusive approach to addressing student infractions, with thegoal of reducing suspension rates and fostering a positive school culture.Instead of relying on traditional punitive measures, this program focuses onrestorative practices that encourage reflection, accountability, andreconciliation.
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This initiative emphasizes empathy, communication, and personal growth,aiming to build trust and mutual respect between students, staff, and peers.By providing alternative responses to infractions, the program seeks to createa supportive environment that helps students learn from their mistakes, repairharm, and reintegrate into the school community in a constructive way.Through this approach, the Alternative to Suspension Program seeks toreduce the negative effects of suspensions on students, such asdisengagement from school, academic setbacks, and social isolation, whilepromoting a healthier, more inclusive school environment.

The primary objective is to maintain students' connection to their schoolcommunity while helping them understand the impact of their actions.Through facilitated discussions and collaborative problem-solving, studentswill have the opportunity to reflect on their behavior, take responsibility, anddevelop an action plan for improving future conduct.

SYS will focus on developing positive social and cognitive skills to meetstudent's needs and developing skills to manage behaviors while ensuringthat the student maintains academic progress and performance. SYS willsupport students by connecting them with additional services and resourcesin the community when needed.

Students will increase insight into root causes for suspension and barriers tobeing successful at school. Students will participate in dailypsychoeducational therapeutic groups and have opportunities for individualtherapeutic support, as needed. Groups will focus on four key skill modules ofmindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonaleffectiveness.