Zero Tolerance

Definition: A zero-tolerance policy in schools is a policy of punishing any infraction of a rule, regardless of accidental mistakes, ignorance, or extenuating circumstances. In schools, common zero-tolerance policies concern possession or use of illicit drugs or weapons. Students, and sometimes staff, parents, and other visitors, who possess a banned item for any reason are always (if the policy is followed) to be punished. These policies are promoted as preventing drug abuse and violence in schools. (Wikipedia, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zero_tolerance_(schools)

What it Means: Tracking student behavior has led some states to start questioning the severity of this punishment and the consistency with which it is being implemented.

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