Lack of independent review process in professional schools and refusal of courts to review errors not resulting from arbitrariness, caprice, or bad faith leave student and societal interests in accurate grading inadequately protected. (Journal availability: University of the Pacific, 3201 Donner Way, Sacramento, CA 95817.) (MSE)

A study of one district's expulsion files over a two-year period found the majority of offenses were committed by students not generally considered dangerous to the school environment. Students recommended for expulsion had below-average grades and achievement scores, and more than expected had identified special education needs. (Author/CR)

A survey of exclusionary discipline practices with handicapped students revealed a national pattern of "de facto" differential treatment. In denying a school's unilateral authority to remove dangerous or disruptive students, the Supreme Court's judgment in "Honig v. Doe" (1988) took precedence over all earlier court decisions.…

A recent decision by the 8th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in a case from Arkansas centered on a vicious letter written by an 8th-grade boy about his former girlfriend and turned over to school officials. The court ruled for the school district in expelling the student for the year, without allowing him to attend an alternative school. Argues that…

Existing policies of local education agencies in Virginia concerning suspension and expulsion of handicapped students were evaluated in light of 6 recommended components. Responses of 78 special education directors to a questionnaire were synthesized with the policy information to develop a model procedure reflecting current trends in disciplining…

The article discusses the Supreme Court's ruling in Doe v. Honig that emotionally handicapped students could not be expelled pending the outcome of a parental appeal. Among implications noted are the need for greater prevention efforts in the area of providing appropriate programs and services for handicapped students. (JW)

A national survey of 81 master's programs in social work investigated the situations or behaviors that led them to develop policies for nonacademic student termination. Results are presented concerning the most common problem behaviors reported and analysis of the programs' policy and procedure documents. Recommendations are made based on these…

Analyzes existing evidence and identifies remaining gaps in knowledge concerning the exclusion of British children from school for disruptive behavior. The authors argue that an adequate understanding of exclusion from school can be achieved only by viewing it within the wider debate on social control and civic exclusion. (SLD)

Student threats of violence should be taken seriously. Although zero-tolerance policies are gaining popularity, mental-health experts urge a more deliberative approach that explores student motives and metes out punishment on a more individualized basis. Fostering strong staff-student relationships and communication can effectively deter violence.…

Using ethnographic techniques, this article explores the complex interaction of control and caring in two alternative education programs for students resisting traditional schooling in Cincinnati (Ohio) Public Schools, a predominantly low-income, African-American urban school district. A community-based orientation for staff proves essential in…

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires the IEP team to identify ameliorative resources and/or disciplinary measures for disruptive students. A BIP (behavior intervention plan) provides appropriate behavioral programming and related social and psychological services. IDEA does not prohibit principals from reporting crimes to…

This paper presents the findings of a qualitative research project carried out in a UK Pupil Referral Unit during the 2000/01 academic year. It describes and analyses the strategies adopted by a small group of Behaviour Support Service teachers in order to achieve their everyday occupational goals. It is argued that despite their commitment to the…

Practical guidelines are presented for implementing a discipline policy at the local level for students with disabilities, with suggestions for distinguishing policies affecting students in general and students with disabilities. Emphasis is placed on emerging issues and practical consequences. Relevant federal and state court decisions are cited,…

Graphs and charts present data on students aged 14-21 exiting special education services in Maryland during the 1993-1994 school year. Reasons for leaving special education are analyzed by local education areas and by disability, with specific charts devoted to students with mental retardation, speech or language impairments, serious emotional…

This report provides state summary tables and district reports of graduation rates, dropout rates, and suspension and expulsion rates in Colorado for 1995-96. Reports for the state's 176 school districts are presented in tabular form for each rate of interest. The graduation rate is a cumulative or longitudinal rate that calculates the number of…