In 2023, a student was suspended for destroying his teacher’s phone. 

He held it high in the air and when the teacher told him to put it down, he smashed it on the floor. He was sent home for one day.
When he returned, he came back with a gun and shot her. 

What happened was shocking, but it's not isolated.
Across the nation, 41% of school attacks take place after a student returns from a break whether that’s a suspension, expulsion, or voluntary withdrawal. 

That number should make every one of us pause.
That’s nearly 50%! 

To be clear, most students who are sent home are not threats. 

The majority simply need time, structure, and guidance to reset.
But that doesn’t mean we should treat their return casually. Every student deserves to be accepted back into the school in a controlled, thoughtful, and intentional way. 

That return moment should include warmth and watchfulness at the same time (Safe & Loved). We must be ready emotionally and operationally to support students who may be coming back with frustration, shame, anger, or uncertainty. 

Here’s what that readiness looks like: 

1. Re-entry Meeting
Bring together admin, counselor, SRO, guardian, and the student to set expectations and show support. 

2. Check-in System
Touch base daily or weekly to monitor adjustment and emotional well-being. 

3. Academic Catch-Up Plan
Prevent embarrassment or frustration by helping the student get back on track.

4. Behavioral Expectations Review
Be direct and go over expectations clearly and calmly.

5. Warning Sign Awareness
Inform key staff of concerns and encourage early reporting of changes in behavior.

6. Supervision Strategy
Strengthen supervision in areas where past issues occurred or where the student feels least connected.

Every reentry is a moment to heal, reconnect, and reestablish trust.

Handled well, it can reduce risk, restore belonging, and protect your school community. Safety isn’t just about keeping people out. Sometimes, it’s about bringing people back in the right way.

So don’t just let Students back in.
Welcome them back right.