Von Kenric Kaneshiro postulated that the underlying root causes of school suspensions are mainly connected to family issues (“Weak family structure leads to suspensions,” Star-Advertiser, Letters, June 18).

I agree that these factors may sometimes contribute to the higher rates of suspensions for Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander students; however, there are other underlying root causes that were not addressed. We must not only look outward but also within, to see what is happening in the schools.

Are teachers provided with sufficient support and resources to alter some of their practices in order to maintain a safe, orderly and welcoming environment for all students? Are the schools looking at the trauma and stress that so many students are faced with and providing social and emotional support for these students? Are there systemic policies and practices in place that discriminate against these students?

The schools can find the solutions to turn things around if they can be honest about the underlying causes that are within their control and not just point the finger one way.

J. Kanani Kihara

Kaneohe

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