Aggregate data for the U.S. and selected cities demonstrate that minority students are suspended in disproportionately large numbers. The data suggest that this may be caused by interpretations of what constitutes acceptable behaviors that differ for various race, sex, and age groups; by inconsistent application of school codes to different race, sex, and age groups; and by disciplinary actions that are not consistent with the nature of the infraction. Steps taken to reduce the proportion of minority students being suspended might include reevaluation of the district's discipline policies; inclusion of students, teachers, and parents in the formulation of discipline policies; a survey of the records to see if discipline is being administered consistently; an analysis to determine specific discipline problems and their causes; design of disciplinary approaches that will address the problems and causes identified; an investigation into the possibility of more direct student training and involvement in school discipline; and a search for outside assistance in developing and implementing a fair, equitable, and nondiscriminatory discipline system. (Author/IRT)