"Zero tolerance" was implemented largely in the mid-1990's to help battle what was then a rise in students bringing guns to school. Districts would expel or suspend students for a single offense which threatened the safety of the school student population, faculty, and staff. However what resulted was not only expulsions for violent first time offenses, but also relatively minor infractions as well. Cursing, pushing in the halls, even hugs in the hall (some schools have rules against public displays of affection) have all resulted in expulsion or long-term suspensions.
Studies illustrate that students who face such penalties risk long-term social and academic problems... it's very simply; students need to be in school in order to be successful. The number of students being removed from school has begun to reach epidemic levels in some places as the Council of State Governments Justice Center reports that in Texas more than 60% of students had been either expelled or suspended from grades 7-12.
Some districts have started programs which keeps disruptive students in school. These students do not miss content and often have to attend counseling or do community service in order to pay for their infractions.
Thoughts?