Literature Review on Zero Tolerance

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the use of zero tolerance policies as a preventative measure against school violence. It points out that studies reveal conflicting opinions about zero tolerance. It argues that the research available shows a clear need for a change in how zero tolerance policies are applied and a need for various alternatives. The paper includes tables and survey statistics to illustrate this. To conclude, the paper suggests that now is the time to make adjustments in policy, practice and research to implement policies that can keep schools safe and preserve the opportunity for all students to learn.

Outline:
Introduction
Statement of Purpose
Review of Literature
History of Zero Tolerance
Perceptions of Teachers, Administrators and Parents
Suspension and Expulsion
School Shootings
Negative Impact of Zero Tolerance
Alternatives to Zero Tolerance Policies
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"A particular strategy that has caught the attention of many school districts in the last two decades or so is the zero tolerance policy. The zero tolerance policy has become a one-size-fits all solution to all the problems facing schools. Skiba (2000) offers this definition for zero tolerance...it is "a method of sending a message that certain behaviors will not be tolerated, by punishing all offenses severely, no matter how minor". The said purpose of the zero tolerance policy is to create a safe and secure learning environment for all students, something that is in fact a right of all students and parents to expect from any educational institution. However, in practice, it has been used to direct students who misbehave intentionally, targets serious risk students who cause disturbances in schools, and applied to students who have an emotional problem or other disability (Noguera 2003)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Adler, Alison, Barnett, Rosemary, Easton, Janice, Howard, Keri, P. (2001, July). An Evaluation of Peace Education Foundation's Conflict Resolution and Peer Mediation Program.
• Advancement Project & Civil Rights Project (2000, June). Opportunities suspended: The devastating consequences of zero tolerance and school discipline policies. Retrieved from Harvard University, The Civil Rights Project Web. http://www.law.harvard.edu/groups/civilrights/conferences/zero/zt_report2.html
• Ashford, R. (2000). Can zero tolerance keep our schools safe? Principal, 80(1), 28-30.
• Atkinson, Anne, J. (2005). Zero Tolerance Policies: An Issue Brief. Prepared for the Virginia Department of Education. Richmond, Virginia.
• Barnett, Joshua, H. (2006). The Agenda Setting Process: Exploring the Reasons for and Maintenance of Zero Tolerance Policies. Volume 5, Number 1. http://policy.uark.edu/paperseries/home.html

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