"California Governor Newsom Prohibits 'Willful Defiance Suspensions' in Secondary Schools"

California Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that bans "willful defiance" suspensions for middle and high school students, which includes behaviors such as breaking dress code, talking back to teachers, or using phones in class. The new law also prohibits suspensions and expulsions for tardiness or truancy. Supporters argue that these suspensions disproportionately affect Black and Latino students, leading to reduced learning and higher dropout rates. The legislation aims to address the underlying causes of student misbehavior and provide support for their success in school.