Is school for me? A phenomenological study on the lived experiences of former incarcerated Black and Brown cisgender males who matriculated through traditional Wisconsin K-12 schools and their perceived impact of discipline polices on their incarceration and life trajectories

Freeman, Kempton R. This phenomenological study presents the lived experiences of formerly incarcerated Black and Brown cisgender males who matriculated through traditional Wisconsin K-12 schools. It includes school discipline policies that shaped their educational journeys and contributed to their incarceration and life trajectories. Using critical race theory (CRT) and social constructivism as the theoretical frameworks, the study highlights systemic biases, zero-tolerance policies, and the school-to-prison pipeline as key factors supporting racial disparities in discipline. Through interviews, surveys, and a focus group, participants known as “Persons” shared firsthand accounts of how punitive school policies, implicit bias, and limited support academically created barriers to success. The findings show that disciplinary actions disproportionately targeting Black and Brown cisgender males not only disrupted their education but also increased their risk of incarceration. The study emphasizes the need for equitable, culturally responsive policies that strengthen academic success rather than criminalization. It concludes with recommendations for policy refinement, educator training, and community engagement to dismantle oppressive structures and create a more just educational environment for Black and Brown cisgender males in traditional Wisconsin K-12 schools.

Grantor dc:publisher

Alverno College

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Freeman, Kempton R.

• School-to-prison pipeline
• School discipline--Social aspects--Wisconsin
• African American youth--Education--Wisconsin

Statement dc:rights

• These materials may be used by individuals and libraries for personal use, research, teaching (including distribution to classes), or for any fair use as defined by U.S. Copyright Law.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

https://alverno.omeka.net/items/show/962

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:alverno.omeka.net:962