MA S376

Narrows grounds for school exclusion by requiring principals to document a "specific, documentable concern about the infliction of serious bodily injury" rather than the current broader standard of "substantial detrimental effect on the general welfare of the school"

Redefines weapons triggering exclusion to reference statutory definitions in Chapter 269, and excludes marijuana from the list of controlled substances that can result in school exclusion (while cocaine and heroin remain grounds for exclusion)

Eliminates expulsion as a disciplinary option under Section 37H¾, limiting principals to suspension only, and prohibits long-term suspensions from extending beyond the end of the school year

Strengthens procedural protections by requiring a hearing before suspension takes effect, notice in the student's home language, right to legal representation, access to evidence, and inclusion of parents/guardians in hearings

Protects students placed on diversion prior to arraignment from suspension under these provisions, and raises the assault standard to require proof of "willful assault with intent and means to harm"