Guidance and Non Suspension/Expulsion Policies

Guidance and Non Suspension/Non Expulsion for Pre-K Policies

Guidance Policy

Social emotional development and school success are linked as seen in a growing body of child research. A child’s early years set the path for the relationships and successes they will experience for the rest of their lives, making it crucial that children’s earliest experiences truly foster—and never harm—their development. During these years, children’s brains are developing rapidly, influenced by the experiences, both positive and negative, that they share with their families, caregivers, teachers, peers, and in their communities.

In each Pre-K classroom, the teachers implement strategies from NM Pyramid to meet a child’s social emotional well-being by:

• Developing their students’ self-esteem by using culturally and linguistically best practices
• Encouraging independence
• Promoting children’s emotional regulation and decision-making skills.

Non Suspension / Non Expulsion Policy

NM PreK programs do not suspend or expel children.

If an alternative placement is being considered due to a child’s behavior, the program follows the process outlined in Section 4.A.5 of the NM PreK Program Standards or an IEP will be scheduled and reviewed.

This includes implementing environmental modifications, interventions, input from preschool coaches, and family collaboration.

Documentation of all supports must be maintained, and the PreK Specialist must be consulted before any placement changes are made.