BETTERMENT OF TEXAS EDUCATION (BTE)
DESIGN RESEARCH & BRAND IDENTITY
The task is to research a global megatrend and create a design solution to solve a problem that is present. Utilizing human-centered research methods is important in developing an impactful design solution for the chosen megatrend, Demographics and Social Change.
Overview + goals
The presence of School Resource Officers (SROs) in schools may do more harm than good, particularly for students of color. Research suggests that SROs are often involved in disproportionate disciplinary actions against students of color, leading to increased rates of suspension, expulsion, and involvement with the criminal justice system. This can have unintended negative consequences on the academic, social, and emotional well-being of marginalized students.
Initial problem discovered
The presence of School Resource Officers (SROs) in schools may disproportionately harm students of color, particularly Black, Indigenous, and Latinx students. Research indicates that SROs are often involved in racially biased disciplinary actions that lead to disproportionate rates of suspension, expulsion, and involvement with the criminal justice system for these students.
who is affected
user empathy map
Age 17
Lives in Austin, TX
High School Student
Wants to attend University of Texas
STEPHANIE
competitive audit — what solutions are out there?
FREE LA High School uses Transformative Justice practices, including peacekeepers on staff and an agreement with local police to not bring guns into the school, to promote a positive school climate and prevent violence.
Orchard Gardens K-8 in Roxbury, MA removed law enforcement by reallocating resources to arts programs, resulting in improved test scores and school climate within three years, making it one of the state's fastest improving schools.
District 287 in Plymouth, Minneapolis removed School Resource Officers and employed Student Safety Coaches who build relationships with students and advocate for them. Incidents with police involvement decreased by over half, and arrest rates dropped from 65% to 12% within the first year.
COMPETITIVE AUDIT — what’s missing?
FUNDING
ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS
clear guidelines and protocols
survey RESULTS
takeaways/pain points
Lack of trust and safety
Students feeling unsafe around SROs are less likely to report incidents or seek help, harming school safety and student well-being
Increased criminalization of students
SROs discipline students of color for minor infractions, raising their risk of involvement with the criminal justice system and the school-to-prison pipeline
Negative impact on academic achievement
SROs create a hostile environment, especially for students of color, increasing stress and anxiety that harm academic performance and learning
Exacerbation of existing racial disparities
SROs in schools perpetuate systemic racism and inequality, with students of color facing higher rates of suspension, expulsion, and arrest, exacerbating disparities and contributing to poverty and disadvantage
Social and Emotional Learning:
Teaches skills for managing emotions, building relationships, and making responsible decisions
Restorative Justice:
Emphasizes repairing harm caused by wrongdoing and building community through dialogue
website
job to be done
Eliminate the school-to-prison pipeline influenced by current discipline policies used against underserved students in the Austin Area.
School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports:
A positive approach to discipline that supports all students
how might we statement
How might we raise awareness of the discipline policies used against underserved students that contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline and suggest alternative solutions to influence future legislation?
XYz statement
We raise awareness of the harmful discipline policies used against underserved students through grassroots advocacy to influence future legislation, similar to the successful marijuana decriminalization campaign in San Marcos.
proposed solution
Betterment of Texas Education (BTE) is a non-profit group working to improve discipline practices in Travis and Williamson County schools in Austin, Texas. Our mission is to raise awareness about the impact of punitive measures on marginalized students, and to advocate for more effective and equitable approaches. We provide education and resources to students, parents, and educators, and work with policymakers to promote positive change. We do this through offering:
What I did:
Design Research
Who I worked with:
collaborators & Roles
Ellie Pena:
Brand Identity, Prototype
Brian Lunn:
Survey
Isabel Algoe:
Design Research