Canisius University, in partnership with the NAACP Buffalo Niagara Falls branches, will host a community screening and panel discussion of the Emmy Award-winning documentary "Preschool to Prison" on Tuesday, November 17 at 6:00 p.m. in the Montante Cultural Center. University President Steve Stoute will deliver opening remarks.
The event, which is free and open to the public, will bring together educators, parents, community leaders, students and advocates to examine the impact of exclusionary school discipline practices on young children and explore alternatives that support positive student outcomes.
Directed by Karen Baptiste, EdD, and produced by Empress Films, "Preschool to Prison" examines the school-to-prison pipeline and the effects of zero-tolerance discipline policies on children, particularly students of color and students with disabilities. Through personal stories and expert perspectives, the documentary explores how suspension, expulsion and school-based arrests can affect students' educational experiences and long-term opportunities.
Following the screening, attendees are invited to participate in a panel discussion focused on restorative practices, early intervention strategies and community-based approaches to student support. The conversation will explore alternatives to exclusionary discipline and highlight resources that help schools foster safe, equitable and developmentally appropriate learning environments.
The screening is part of a broader effort by Canisius University to engage the community in conversations about educational equity and opportunities for all students.
"Preschool to Prison" is currently available for viewing on Amazon Prime.