Expulsion and suspension rates rising in preschools [Video]

MINNEAPOLIS — There’s a troubling trend nationwide, more preschoolers are getting expelled and suspended. 

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says the rate is three times more for preschoolers than children in K-through-12, and educators are sounding the alarm.

At a community briefing Thursday hosted by St. David’s Center, Doctor Tim Zeng with the Institute for Early Education Leadership and Innovation in Boston presented his research. Among other observations, Zeng found that 49% of pre-school teachers said they suspended a child in the past year.

Black children account for almost 50% of public preschool suspensions but less than one-fifth of all preschoolers. Children with disabilities are also more likely to be suspended, and boys are expelled 4.5 times more than girls.

“The children have to learn about problem solving skills in the classroom setting, instead of just sending them home,” Zeng said.

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