The Justice Department conducted an investigation into Wichita Public Schools in Kansas and found that Black and disabled students were disciplined more frequently and harshly compared to their white counterparts. Black girls were especially targeted for minor infractions and were often referred to law enforcement unnecessarily. Students with disabilities were subjected to frequent seclusions and restraints as punishment, with one student experiencing 144 instances of restraint or seclusion. Special schools for students with behavioral disabilities were found to be lacking in resources and staff support.
As a result of the investigation, Wichita Public Schools has agreed to make changes to improve the treatment of disabled students and ensure nondiscrimination in discipline. These changes include eliminating seclusions as a punishment, providing counseling for students who have been repeatedly secluded and restrained, and creating an office to monitor restraint practices. The district will also implement a district-level monitoring system to ensure equitable discipline practices, involve school security and law enforcement only in appropriate circumstances, and standardize dress code policies.
Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke emphasized the importance of ending the school to prison pipeline and protecting vulnerable students from discrimination. The changes must be implemented by January 1, 2025. Wichita Superintendent of Schools Kelly Bielefeld acknowledged the need for a more equitable school district and emphasized the importance of the settlement agreement in improving disciplinary practices for students, staff, and the community.
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