Can a Schoolwide Advisory Program Reduce Discipline Referrals and Boost Feelings of School Connectedness?

Introduction/Background: School discipline procedures are harmful to students and programs that reduce the likelihood of suspension are important for students’ wellbeing. School connectedness is a known protective factor for students. This study explores the implementation of a schoolwide advisory program’s impact on discipline referrals and students’ feelings of school connectedness. Methods: Data were collected over the course of an entire school year and results were compared pre- and post-intervention. The intervention took place during the 2nd semester of the school year. School discipline data and survey data (Student Subjective Wellbeing Questionnaire [SSWQ]) were compared pre- and post-intervention. Results: Mean out-of-school suspension rates were reduced at statistically significant levels. Mean ISS rates increased. There was not a statistically significant change in mean SSWQ scores. Discussion: This might serve as foundational work that a schoolwide advisory program could use to help reduce rates of out-of-school suspension.