School discipline is a matter of critical importance, with profound implications for student learning and development. Over the course of his presentation, Dr. Rodriguez will share findings from a study that sheds light on the often-overlooked role of school support staff in mitigating the prevalence of and racial disparities in exclusionary discipline in public middle and high schools in New York City. Findings from the study underscore the importance of expanding the presence of support staff within schools and emphasize the necessity for greater diversity among school personnel.
Luis Rodriguez is Assistant Professor of Educational Leadership and Policy Studies in the Department of Administration, Leadership, and Technology at NYU. Dr. Rodriguez’s research delves into the intersections of educator quality, retention, and diversity; school discipline; and school climate, and seeks to identify policies, programs, and practices capable of fostering more equitable and supportive learning and working environments for students and educators. More specifically, his research applies interdisciplinary perspectives to examine how school organizational conditions, education reform, and broader socio-political factors affect the P-12 education workforce and its ability to generate positive outcomes for students. In addition to his primary research area, Dr. Rodriguez has a strong interest in understanding the drivers and impact of student exposure to exclusionary disciplinary measures, especially those from historically marginalized backgrounds.