This report from the Learning Policy Institute (LPI) discusses why exclusionary discipline is ineffective at improving school safety and deterring infractions. It points out that research shows suspensions do not address any of the underlying reasons that may be leading to behavioral incidents, and they do not create opportunities for students to learn new approaches to communicating or resolving conflicts. The authors discuss national and state-level findings on suspension rates and disparities and conclude by offering six key policy strategies for reducing suspension gaps and exclusionary discipline practices overall at the state and local levels.