Fresno Unified School District’s discipline system is broken. In one year, FUSD students missed over 32,000 days of school due to suspensions and lost $250,000 due to forced absences. Research clearly shows that kids who are suspended are more likely to drop out of school.

Restorative discipline is a better way. It resolves conflicts before they escalate so students can stay in school, increasing attendance. It is proven to work in school districts similar to ours, creating better learning environments for students and school staff.

We, the undersigned, urge Fresno Unified School District Board of Trustees and Superintendent to establish a restorative discipline system at all Fresno Unified school sites, and to begin implementation during the 2013-2014 school year.