Zero Tolerance Policies for Schools Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Zero Tolerance Policies for Schools - Term Paper Example In most instances, such cases are rationalized as sacrifices that are necessary if zero tolerance has to be fairly applied and be effective in creating a deterrent effect. The purpose of this paper is to emphasize why zero tolerance in schools is an important legislative, judicial or public policy issue while elaborating on its potential direct effect on education. Literature Review Zero-tolerance policies have been adopted by various schools for various reasons. Some have adopted the policy for purposes of dealing with behavioral issues targeting alcohol/drugs, weapons, fighting within the school premises and threatening behaviors. As documented by the Center for Disease Control 2006, approximately 100% of schools within the district had prohibitions against fighting and weapons. About 80% had prohibitions against gang-activity whilst 90% had put in place zero tolerance policies against drugs such as tobacco and alcohol. The compulsory and free public education promise in the United States is a promise to access and equal opportunity to the â€Å"American Dream†. This promise has been found to be an illusionary one characterized by a history of segregation in the lines of race and class disparities. This extends to the gap in both quality and funding of schools. As a matter of fact, education policy shifts in the previous years have engineered the inherent public education inequalities that persist in the American society. Rather than the education policy creating an atmosphere of opportunity, engagement and learning, the educational practices currently operating are increasingly deviating from the very purpose of zero tolerance in schools. The growing pattern of expelling students from educational institutions through the... The compulsory and free public education promise in the United States is a promise to access and equal opportunity to the â€Å"American Dream†. This promise has been found to be an illusionary one characterized by a history of segregation in the lines of race and class disparities. This extends to the gap in both quality and funding of schools. As a matter of fact, education policy shifts in the previous years have engineered the inherent public education inequalities that persist in the American society. Rather than the education policy creating an atmosphere of opportunity, engagement and learning, the educational practices currently operating are increasingly deviating from the very purpose of zero tolerance in schools. The growing pattern of expelling students from educational institutions through the use of â€Å"zero tolerance â€Å"policies and tracking them indirectly or directly into the adult and juvenile criminal justice systems is what has been   referred to a s school to prison pipeline.Since time immemorial, schools have been characterized by both informal and formal tracks that direct students into different areas of the curriculum. However, the tracking of students out of their school environment into jail is a phenomenon that is new. Present policies have increased students risks of being expelled, arrested or suspended at school. The poor, disabled students, youth of distinct color to be precise the African Americans are disproportionately affected by the zero tolerance policy.