Evidence-Based and Promising Practices as a Means to Level the Preschool-to-Prison Pipeline

The preschool-to-prison pipeline is a system characterized by the use of exclusionary discipline practices, such as suspensions and expulsions, that push children out of preschool and into the juvenile and criminal justice systems. This article provides a concise synthesis of evidence-based and promising practices aimed at reducing the number of children from Black and other marginalized groups entering this pipeline. The effects of biased and punitive zero-tolerance policies on vulnerable children are discussed, along with practical solutions grounded in literacy, culturally responsive practices, self-regulation, and restorative approaches.