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CPS Changing Student Discipline To Reduce Suspensions

CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Chicago Board of Education was set to vote later this week on changes in the student discipline code, a move that likely will mean fewer students suspensions for Chicago Public Schools students next school year.

WBBM Newsradio's Bernie Tafoya reports CPS officials have decided to move away from zero-tolerance approaches to student discipline.

As a result, the district should end up with fewer students being given automatic out-of-school suspensions for violations such as using a cell phone in class.

Students in preschool through 2nd grade almost never would face a suspension. There also would not be any mandatory suspensions for students up to 5th grade, except possibly for bringing a weapon to school.

CPS Chief Executive Officer Barbara Byrd-Bennett said she wants a more holistic approach to dealing with bad behavior.

The proposal also includes a more streamlined appeals process for parents and guardians to express concerns over disciplinary actions handed down by the district.

The Chicago Teachers Union called the changes a step in the right direction.

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