Behavior and School Discipline Resources

The Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau supports New Mexico schools in implementing proactive, equitable, and data-informed approaches to student behavior and discipline. This page provides guidance, requirements, best practices, and statewide support resources.

Behavior Support and Discipline Overview

New Mexico schools are encouraged to implement prevention-focused systems that strengthen school climate and reduce the need for exclusionary discipline.

Key focus areas include:

• Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS)
• Restorative approaches and relationship-centered discipline
• Clear, consistent, and equitable discipline procedures
• Interventions and supports prior to suspension
• Data-informed decision-making
• Intensive supports for students with complex needs

Additional guidance on creating safe, supportive learning environments is available on the Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau website: https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/safe-and-healthy-schools/

NOVA Discipline Reporting Requirements

Schools are required to accurately report discipline incidents into the STARS system.

NOVA Discipline Domain Manual: https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/information-technology/nova/

This resource includes:

• Incident types and definitions
• Reportable vs. non-reportable incidents
• Consequence codes and data requirements
• Reporting scenarios and examples

Laws, Rules, and Regulations Related to Discipline

Key state laws and regulations governing student discipline in New Mexico include:

• Student Discipline (NMAC 6.11.2)
• Safe Schools and School Climate Requirements (NMAC 6.12)
• Process Protections for Students with Disabilities (IDEA & NMAC 6.31 / 6.29)
• Standards for Excellence (NMAC 6.29.1)
• Restraint/Seclusion Guidelines (NMPED Guidance)
• Attendance and Truancy Requirements (NMAC 6.10.8)

Training and Professional Learning Opportunities

Throughout the school year, schools and districts can access statewide professional development on:

• PBIS implementation
• Restorative practices and circles
• Trauma-responsive schoolwide practices
• Behavior intervention planning
• Reducing discipline disproportionality
• STARS discipline reporting accuracy

Training is coordinated through the Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau and partner organizations. Please visit the Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau News page for more information: https://web.ped.nm.gov/bureaus/safe-and-healthy-schools/news-events/

Additional NMPED Guidance and Support Resources

• Multi-Layered System of Supports (MLSS)
• Special Education Bureau (discipline & IDEA protections)
• Attendance for Success
• Civil Rights & Equity Resources (Student Success & Wellness Bureau)

Research and Support Resources

• Multiple Responses, Promising Results: Evidence-Based, Nonpunitive Alternatives to Zero Tolerance
• Center for PBIS Resources Page
• Instead of Suspension: Alternative Strategies for Effective School Discipline
• National Association of School Psychologists Framework for Effective School Discipline
• National Clearinghouse on Supportive School Discipline
• Improving Student Outcomes Through Restorative Practices

Technical Assistance and Support

The Safe and Healthy Schools Bureau provides support to districts and charter schools in:

• Discipline policy review and alignment
• Implementation of preventative behavior systems
• PBIS and restorative practice coaching
• Identification and reduction of disproportionality
• STARS reporting accuracy and troubleshooting
• School climate improvement planning

For more information or assistance, please contact
Lee Collyer, School Climate Specialist, Lee.Collyer@ped.nm.gov

For district and school support reporting student discipline data, please contact
Deborah Chavez, Mental Health Service Specialist, deborah.chavez1@ped.nm.gov