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Zero Tolerance Policy: “Zero Tolerance” initially was defined as consistently enforced suspension and expulsion policies in response to weapons, drugs and violent acts in the school setting. Over time, however, zero tolerance has mandated harsh consequences or punishments (such as suspension and expulsion) for a wide degree of rule violations. Most frequently, zero tolerance policies address drug, weapons, violence, smoking and school disruption in efforts to protect all students’ safety and maintain a school environment that is conducive to learning. Some teachers and administrators favor zero tolerance policies because they remove difficult students from school; administrators perceive zero tolerance policies as fast-acting interventions that send a clear, consistent message that certain behaviors are not acceptable in the school. However, research indicates that these policies are ineffective in the long run and are related to a number of negative consequences (i.e., increased rates of school drop out, discriminatory application of school discipline practices ((race and gender)), crime rates, etc.). Proven discipline strategies that provide more effective alternatives to broad zero tolerance policies should be implemented to ensure that all students have access to an appropriate education in a safe environment.
