NCJ Number
198397
Date Published
2001
Length
20 pages
Annotation
This bulletin discusses suspension and expulsion in school discipline and the growing use of zero tolerance policies.
Abstract
Suspension and expulsion have long been used to remove students from school for serious offenses. These disciplinary actions represent the upper end of the continuum of actions available to school administrators. They have historically been reserved for repeat offenses of a serious nature or for single offenses of the most egregious type. Recently, students are being expelled for less serious acts using a "zero tolerance" rationale based on increasing concern for the safety of students in schools where egregious acts of violence have increased in number and come with few warning signs that are often difficult to detect. The bulletin discusses how to distinguish between suspension and expulsion; national levels of firearm-related suspension and expulsion; complying with federal laws; counting the costs; whether zero tolerance is working; preventing suspension and expulsion; PATHE (Positive Action Through Holistic Education); classroom conflict resolution training for elementary schools; anger management for adolescent African-American males; and alternative school placements. Notes, tables, references