Zero Tolerance: Can Suspension and Expulsion Keep Schools Safe?: New Directions for Youth Development, No. 92

by Russell J. Skiba, Gil G. Noam

Addressing the problem of school violence and disruption requires thoughtful understanding of the complexity of the personal and systemic factors that increase the probability of violence, and designing interventions based on that understanding. This inaugural issue explores the effectiveness of zero tolerance as a tool for promoting school safety and improving student behavior and offers alternative strategies that work. Authors examine the state of knowledge in research and law concerning zero tolerance and present data illustrating that zero tolerance has failed to demonstrate effectiveness in reducing school violence or improving student discipline. They present disciplinary alternatives, long-term preventatives, and working models that make a positive contribution to school safety and support positive youth development.

196 pages, Paperback

First published March 12, 2002