OSEP Director Addresses the Unexpected Realities of Discipline in Preschools

By the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services

WASHINGTON, D.C. (May 22, 2022) – The director of the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) addressed preschool suspension, expulsion and informal removals in her May Discipline Discussions blog, May 22.

OSEP Director Valerie C. Williams wrote about the “stressful and isolating experiences” created by removing children from their preschool environment.

“What message are we sending to our 3 through 5-year-old children if one of their first educational experiences involves a disciplinary removal?” Williams wrote. “How does this experience shape their perspective, engagement, sense of belonging and future approach to school?”

To help continue her May discussion, Williams asked three OSEP technical assistance centers to expand on the topic of discipline at the preschool level.

The National Center for Pyramid Model Innovations (NCPMI), the Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center (ECTA), and the Center for IDEA Early Childhood Data Systems (DaSy) also provided resources to help parents and states, local program and school leaders to support a child’s preschool success.

Last modified on May 22, 2023