Picture this: Amerie, a young Black middle-school girl gets in trouble and is held against her will in the principal's office, with a School Resource Officer, denied access to calling her mom. Today, we share her story.

Sadly, this isn't uncommon, as North Carolina's "disorderly conduct in schools" law grants broad discretion to school resource officers - ultimately contributing to biased punishments.

So This is How the ACLU-NC protects Black students and students with disabilities from disproportionate school discipline.

Join us as we explore solutions with Carlton Powell and Michele Delgado, learning how legal advocacy can empower these students and pave the way for inclusive education. Let's uncover the path to justice and equity in our schools.

About our Guests:
Michele Delgado is an alumna of North Carolina A&T State University and NCCU School of Law. With a criminal defense background and unwavering commitment to the fight for social justice, Michele works to address emerging and ongoing civil rights issues through complex litigation, community education, and integrated advocacy.

Carlton Powell serves as the Supervising Attorney for The Right to Education Project at Legal Aid of North Carolina. With a strong commitment to justice and education, Powell advocates tirelessly to ensure every individual's right to quality education is protected. Armed with extensive legal expertise and a passion for social equality, he works to dismantle barriers that hinder access to education for marginalized communities.

Today's episode of This is How is hosted by Kalvin Benfield (he/him), presented by ACLU of North Carolina, and produced by Earfluence.