Exploring Discipline Policy Problems in Mississippi Pre-K

Author

Briana A. O'Neil, University of Mississippi. Sally McDonnell Barksdale Honors College

Date of Award

2015

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Public Policy Leadership

First Advisor

Melissa Bass

Relational Format

Dissertation/Thesis

Abstract

This thesis seeks to examine the current state of discipline in publicly funded pre-K in Mississippi to determine policy that state policymakers can implement to prevent excessive suspensions and expulsions. This thesis also takes into account racial disparities found in disciplining pre-K students and explores methods that Mississippi can add to pre-K discipline policy as a preventive measure. Two case studies on North Carolina and Tennessee are utilized to identify potential strategies that Mississippi education can learn from. After analyzing both states, I realized that positive behavior reinforcement had success in both states. North Carolina's Positive Behavior Support and Intervention (PBIS) provided many lessons for Mississippi in terms of implementation strategies. In conclusion, I strongly urge Mississippi legislatures to mandate PBIS practices into publicly funded pre-K programs.

Recommended Citation

O'Neil, Briana A., "Exploring Discipline Policy Problems in Mississippi Pre-K" (2015). Honors Theses. 142.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/142

Accessibility Status

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