Zero Tolerance: Safe Schools or Zero Sense?

ABSTRACT

Zero tolerance polices and an emphasis on school safety have been effective in reducing the incidents of weapons and violence in public schools. Some applications of zero tolerance, however, seem to defy common sense. But, concerns regarding weapons and violence are real. This manuscript argues that well administered zero tolerance policies combined with a comprehensive approach to improve school culture is a viable part of the school safety equation.

KEYWORDS:

• Zero tolerance
• school safety
• weapons in school
• school suspension/expulsion