An Act enhancing learning in the early school years through a ban on school exclusion in pre-kindergarten through 3rd grade

This bill prohibits public schools in Massachusetts from suspending or expelling students in pre-kindergarten through fifth grade for disciplinary infractions. While it maintains these bans for grades pre-K through third, it gradually extends the protection to fourth and fifth grades over a two-year period following the law's passage. To support educators, the legislation requires the state Department of Elementary and Secondary Education to provide guidance on alternative behavior management strategies, such as mediation and restorative justice. The measure aims to ensure consistent access to education for young students by removing exclusionary discipline as a response to behavioral issues.