In an effort to reform disciplinary measures and combat substance abuse among students, Norman Public Schools in Oklahoma have seen a notable decrease in suspension rates. The shift came after the district received a $150,000 opioid abatement grant from the Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Board. This initiative aimed to pivot from punishment to proactive methods of prevention, education, and recovery, according to the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office.
Before the intervention, the district’s substance abuse suspension rates stood at a staggering 212 for the 2022-2023 school year, Director of Counseling Kitrena Hime recognized that traditional punitive measures were not enough, and sought change. “Our students are more than the mistakes they make, and it is our job to give them the tools and support they need to make better choices and succeed in school and in life,” Norman Schools Superintendent Nick Migliorino said, as reported by the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office press release.
As part of Hime’s plan, the district created a three-step system to handle drug and alcohol issues. It starts with education and accountability, then uses school and community mental health support, and, if needed, offers treatment programs. A staff member also helps students keep up with school and attend regularly, as per the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office…