Welcome back to This is How We Protect Black Students and Students with Disabilities from Disproportionate School Discipline in which host Kalvin Benfield discusses School Resource Officers (SRO) and the ACLU NC Disorderly Conduct Report with Carlton Powell and Michele Delgado.

In Part 1, we examined an incident between Amerie, the school administration, and an aggressive SRO. We outlined what occurred, why it was inappropriate, and how often these kinds of situations happen throughout the state of North Carolina.

Today, in Part 2, we will be considering the short-term and long-term impacts that these inappropriate interactions with SROs have on students, as well as the negative effects on children when they enter into the criminal legal system. As we wrap up the conversation, Carlton and Michele will touch on some alternative solutions to SROs that could help keep kids protected, in school, and on the right track to achieve their goals.

This is How the ACLU of NC fights to keep students of color and students with disabilities safe.

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.