The Yonkers Public Schools system is revamping its code of conduct in hopes of reducing the number of students who are suspended.

The district has some of the highest number of suspensions in Westchester County - especially when it comes to minorities - but new numbers show things could be getting better.

The district's proposed code of conduct moves away from policies like suspension to student engagement and support, looking at the student's family situation, age and English proficiency.

The district made minor changes two years ago to avoid suspension as the first option. New data shows a decrease in the total number of suspensions from 2015 to 2016.

Advocates say suspension creates a school-to-prison pipeline, which is why addressing misconduct with words instead of suspension can be life-changing.

Yonkers Public Schools will present its revised code of conduct to the Board of Education on June 15. If approved, the code would be implemented when school starts next September.