During a recent school board meeting, community members voiced significant concerns regarding the current disciplinary policies in schools, emphasizing the need for reform to address the school-to-prison pipeline. Speakers highlighted how harsh policies and the presence of law enforcement in educational settings contribute to a culture of criminalization among students, particularly affecting their mental health and academic performance.

One speaker, Christopher Ariasa, a rising senior at Core Gibbo Senior High, urged the board to commit to an annual evaluation of restorative practices across all school levels. He argued that data-driven approaches to discipline could foster a more supportive and inclusive school culture, ultimately reducing suspensions and expulsions. Ariasa criticized the invasive police presence in schools, stating that it does not enhance safety but rather alienates students from those meant to protect them.

Another speaker emphasized the detrimental effects of punitive measures, noting that they lead to increased dropout rates and a sense of unwelcomeness among students. The call for a shift from punitive to restorative practices was echoed throughout the meeting, with community members advocating for a focus on nurturing educational environments rather than ones that resemble correctional facilities.

Princess Harper, representing the Miami Climate Alliance, also spoke, urging the board to consider the broader implications of their policies on the community and the future of children. The meeting underscored a growing demand for systemic changes in school discipline, with community members rallying for a more compassionate approach to student behavior and well-being.