Zero Tolerance Policies and School Discipline

Abstract

Zero tolerance policies have been defined as school disciplinary practices that mandate automatic suspension and/or expulsion from school with the effect of redefining “students as criminals, with unfortunate consequences” (Martin, 2001, p. 1). Research suggests the harmful effects of zero tolerance policies on students and their families may outweigh the benefits of deterring student misbehavior. This policy brief discusses the efficacy of zero tolerance policies as a strategy to address school violence.