Abstract:

Currently in the United States out of school suspensions have increased and “one suspension can just rock some child’s world and won’t do any good at all” according to Thompson, (2006). Parents, politicians, educators and students are equally concerned about the rising number of students who are suspended from school for infractions that range from disrespect to physical attacks. These stakeholders are looking for viable measures to reduce the number of out of school suspensions, change inappropriate behavior and improve student learning. One question that plagues the education world is: “What is the alternative to this massive problem…out of school suspensions?” Some school districts have implemented technology as a way to reduce suspensions and improve student achievement (Baxter, 2008). When students are not in school they are not being afford the opportunity to participate in a rigorous academic program. Therefore, improving the immediate classroom environment with the use of technology in order to review student data, provide learning opportunities using instructional technology and other alternatives will increase the learner’s chance of staying in school without getting into trouble. The following questions once answered will provide educators with options to reducing suspension as technology is infused into instructional programs:

1. How can we create a program using technology to identify targeted misbehaviors and appropriate replacement behaviors?
2. How can teachers create a strategic plan to afford students opportunities to use instructional technology programs when in school and out of school?
3. How can we provide professional development training for educators using technology to change and modify student behavior?
4. How will the school/teacher include parental involvement in developing, implementing and monitoring the success of the plan that focuses on students avoiding suspensions?
5. How can funding be obtained to implement and sustain technology for suspension reduction programs?
6. How suspension information derived from data warehouses can facilitate decision making dialogue in school district?

Keywords:

Technology, suspensions, expulsions.