Theses and Dissertations
Date of Award
2025
Document Type
Dissertation - NSU Access Only
Degree Name
Doctor of Education (EdD)
Department
Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice
Advisor
Deeb Paul Kitchen
Committee Member
David Weintraub
Committee Member
Kimberly Durham
Keywords
out-of-school suspensions, administrators’ perspectives, school discipline, stakeholder collaboration
Abstract
Out-of-school suspensions (OSS) are commonly used in U.S. schools to respond to student misbehavior. However, research shows that they are ineffective in reducing disciplinary infractions. This study explores the impact of OSS on student’s academic performance, engagement, and emotional well-being and examines the role of school administrators in disciplinary decisions. Researchers have highlighted the harmful effects of OSS and advocated for restorative practices and support systems.
This qualitative case study investigates high school administrators' perspectives on why current disciplinary methods, particularly OSS, fail to reduce school misbehavior and explores their awareness of alternative approaches to discipline. The study focuses on urban high school administrators in Virginia, seeking to understand their perspectives on the ineffectiveness of OSS and the potential benefits of alternatives.
By analyzing these views, the researcher aims to inform future school disciplinary policies and practices. The study also addresses a critical gap in educational research by providing insights into administrators’ perceptions of student discipline, which could guide more effective, equitable approaches to behavior management. The findings indicate that many administrators view OSS as counterproductive, emphasizing the need for ongoing training in alternative methods that promote academic and social success. Future studies should focus on identifying and implementing alternatives to OSS to reduce unfavorable outcomes for students and improve school environments.
NSUWorks Citation
Darlene Hester-Slade. 2025. High School Administrators' Perceptions of Out-of-School Suspension and Existing Alternatives. Doctoral dissertation. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, Abraham S. Fischler College of Education and School of Criminal Justice. (677)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/fse_etd/677.
