House Education Policy Committee
Chair Laurie Pryor
January 24th, 2023
H.F. 271 – Representative Edelson
Dear Chair Pryor and members of the House Education Policy Committee,
The Minnesota Council on Disability supports the passage of H.F. 271 which strongly encourages policies that require teachers and administrators to consider non-exclusionary discipline practices. Removing or excluding a student from activities such as recess or breaks can have negative effects on students, especially those with learning disabilities or those enrolled in special education.
When determining discipline, we highly encourage teachers and administrators to consider the students potential disability and how exclusionary discipline could have a negative impact on the student’s well-being. H.F. 271 considers this in line 2.7 to 2.9, stating exclusionary discipline should only be considered if a student’s IEP allows it:
(3) for students receiving special education services, the student’s individualized education program team has determined that withholding recess is appropriate based on the individualized needs of the student.
The Minnesota Council on Disabilities believes in protecting students with disabilities from inappropriate or unfair disciplinary practices, especially those that exclude a student from gaining valuable social skills.
Please support H.F. 271 and students with disabilities.
Sincerely,
Trevor Turner
Public Policy Director
Minnesota Council on Disability