Disciplinary incidents at Oak Park River Forest were down 28% overall in 2023-2024 from the previous year, according to a report presented at an October Committee of the Whole board meeting. 

Only 289 of OPRF’s 3,271 students were attached to disciplinary incidents, which numbered 571 in all. The largest increase was the 85% jump in violations in regards to the electronic device policy. The report also noted a 20% increase from students whose behaviors disrupt classroom settings and an 18% increase in “excessive physical aggression” from students.  Incidents like vaping and smoking had an overall reduction of 34%. 

However, the school still sees vaping as an area of concern, according to the report, which described it as a “national epidemic.” Students caught vaping use a curriculum called 3rd Millenium while in in-school reflection. Repeat offenders work with Way Back Inn, a local rehabilitation center that provides recovery services for teenagers as well people 18 and older.

The report also noted that Black students are disproportionately disciplined, accounting for 53% of incidents overall. White students accounted for 32% of incidents, and multiracial students 12%. Black students were also disproportionately represented in out of school suspensions. Of the 19 students who were suspended last year, 13 were Black.  

According to OPRF’s website, “56 percent of our 3,400 students identify as white, while 20 percent identify as African-American, 12 percent as Hispanic, 9 percent as multiracial, and 3 percent as Asian.”

“The disproportionate participation of our African American students in disciplinary incidents continues to be an area of concern,” the report stated, adding that the issue “is best addressed using proactive interventions that address trauma-impacted students.”

With the updated disciplinary report OPRF plans to implement systems that will help students build self regulation skills. “It takes work to change the mindset and choices of students. That’s a process for all of us in the building in terms of making sure the students are getting the support and skill building they need to make better choices,” said Assistant Superintendent and Principal Lynda Parker.