Key Findings on the School-to-Prison Pipeline - Suspended youth face an 878% higher risk of incarceration compared to their peers [1] - Traditional disciplinary measures like suspensions and expulsions are ineffective in reducing misbehavior or improving academic achievement [1] - The Ontario Safe Schools Act led to a 341% increase in suspensions and a 1,700% increase in expulsions [1] Restorative Justice Programs - Restorative justice programs can lead to an almost 80% decrease in suspensions after one year of implementation [2] - Restorative justice focuses on conflict resolution, emotional intelligence, and repairing harm rather than repeating it [2] - Restorative justice includes intensive interventions, targeted interventions, and universal introductions [2] Systemic Issues and Solutions - Students of color are more likely to be racially profiled and criminalized for minor school offenses [1] - Increased police presence in schools can lead to higher incarceration rates for marginalized communities [2] - The current education system is designed to perpetuate the school-to-prison pipeline, necessitating a new system focused on student safety and success [4]