Story perspectives

Red States Enforce Strict Discipline; Blue States Limit Suspensions

12/23/2025

Summary

Story summary

In red states like Alabama and Louisiana, educators are empowered to enforce strict discipline and act swiftly, improving outcomes for disadvantaged students.
In blue states such as California and Massachusetts, discipline is a last resort, suspensions for infractions are limited.
Data show Alabama suspends students two to three times more often than Washington, despite similar reporting.
Southern schools have maintained stability, while disorder rose in the Northeast, Midwest, and West.

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Story summary

In red states like Alabama and Louisiana, educators are empowered to enforce strict discipline and act swiftly, improving outcomes for disadvantaged students.
In blue states such as California and Massachusetts, discipline is a last resort, suspensions for infractions are limited.
Data show Alabama suspends students two to three times more often than Washington, despite similar reporting.
Southern schools have maintained stability, while disorder rose in the Northeast, Midwest, and West.