Summary
Changes school punishment rules to be based on what a student does, not their race, to make schools safer for everyone.
What problem does this solve?
Previous government rules led schools to discipline students based on racial statistics rather than their actual behavior, making classrooms less safe. This order directs schools to focus on a student's actions when deciding on punishment, aiming to restore order and safety.
Who does this affect?
- Students in K-12 schools
- Teachers and school administrators
- Children of military service members
What does this order do?
Issues new guidance on school discipline
Requires the Secretary of Education to create new rules for schools on how to handle student discipline without discriminating based on race.
Ends discipline based on racial statistics
Stops the policy that could punish schools if their discipline numbers showed higher rates for certain racial groups, even if the rules were applied fairly.
Requires a report on school discipline practices
Orders a report to the President about how discipline policies based on 'discriminatory equity ideology' are used in American schools.
Updates discipline code for military schools
Directs the Secretary of Defense to create a new school discipline code to better protect the children of military families.
Coordinates with states on discipline policies
Requires the Secretary of Education and the Attorney General to work with state leaders to prevent racial discrimination in school discipline.
What is the real world impact?
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Rejects policies focused on racial equity
Argues that focusing on racial numbers in discipline is a form of discrimination that makes schools less safe. This order ends policies designed to fix racial differences in punishment rates.
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Promotes school safety through behavior-based discipline
Aims to make classrooms safer by allowing teachers and administrators to discipline students based on their specific actions, rather than worrying about racial statistics.
When does this start?
This order sets multiple deadlines for government agencies to change school discipline rules.
New guidance for schools
Within 30 days of April 23, 2025, the Secretary of Education must issue new guidance to schools regarding discipline.
Coordination with states
Within 60 days of April 23, 2025, the Secretary of Education and Attorney General must begin working with state leaders on school discipline.
Revised military school discipline code
Within 90 days of April 23, 2025, the Secretary of Defense must issue a revised school discipline code for military children.
Report to the President
Within 120 days of April 23, 2025, a report on school discipline practices must be submitted to the President.