School personnel need to learn about the outcomes of controversial education cases. Research on school law knowledge indicates that teachers and students would benefit from learning the basic principles of school law. (six references) (MLF)

Describes conflict between the expectations for college student behavior and the more permissive mores of society at large. Claims enforcement of discipline in relatively liberal and open atmosphere of a college campus creates instances of strain for faculty, administrators, and students alike. Offers suggestions for easing that conflict.…

Problems arising from ineffective personnel discipline are examined and a progressive approach designed to remediate bad practices is outlined. The progressive process provides for oral warnings, written warnings, suspensions, and then terminations. A checklist to take managers through the disciplinary process is included. (MSE)

A random sample of students, faculty, and administrators at a large research university in the Midwest participated in a survey to determine severity of student misconduct and the importance of information used to determine disciplinary action. All groups agreed on the most critical information for disciplinary action and the most serious…

The DeKalb County (Georgia) School System has reduced the number of gun-toting students by over 65% by piecing together a program combining education, community involvement, mandatory expulsion, and video technology. Kids do their part by learning the school's discipline policy, discussing nonviolent alternatives, and carrying clear bookbags. (MLH)

Describes a 3-pronged policy to control budding problems of violence in a Midwestern school of about 2,600 students. Explains why each of the three policy changes--more lunch periods, assigned lockers, and mandatory student identification cards visibly displayed on each student--have made an enormous difference. (TB)

A historical overview of disciplinary practices used in U.S. classrooms shows that corporal punishment has been a consistent and conspicuous part of schooling since the beginning. Alternatives aimed at minimizing classroom punishment and disciplining students in a more systematic and psychologically oriented way are now part of teacher preparation…

Focuses on practical guidelines for the implementation of discipline policy at the local level, including suggestions for distinguishing discipline policy for disabled students from discipline policy affecting students in general. (MLF)

A Pennsylvania countywide, centralized alternative school called CLASS--Creative Learning Alternatives for Student Success--encourages students to stay in school, master the basic skills, and develop the cooperative attitudes needed for success. Eight districts now participate and enrollment has grown to 73 students in grades 7 through 12. (MLF)

The "boys will be boys" era is over. Districts must take two basic actions to establish schools that are free of sexual harassment: publish a written policy and provide training for students. This article explains California Code and Federal law requirements, the value of special curricula, and the need for maintaining confidentiality,…

Reviews key cases concerning disciplinary and academic decisions in higher education handed down by courts in 1997. Cases touched on procedural due process (for medical residents, academic versus disciplinary decisions, other notable issues), double jeopardy, breach of contract, student discipline records under the Family Education Rights and…

Shortages of teachers with specialized skills, coupled with increased difficulty accommodating students with problem behaviors in general education classrooms, create pressures for performance and accountability in schools. Describes improvements in classroom ecology after implementation of a school-wide discipline model. These outcomes were…

Questions the effectiveness of the widespread use of zero-tolerance policies enacted by school boards to punish students who violate weapon and drug rules. Suggests that enforcement of zero-tolerance policies has not been equitable. Reviews proposal for alternative to zero tolerance. (PKP)

The U.S. Department of Education's Higher Education Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse and Violence Prevention publishes "Catalyst," a newsletter covering current Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse and Violence (AODV) prevention issues at institutions of higher education. "Catalyst" discusses emerging issues and highlights innovative efforts on…

Maintaining well-disciplined schools is becoming more difficult in today's educational system, and problem behavior or lack of school discipline is reaching crisis proportions. Nationally recognized author and educator Geoff Colvin provides the "what's," "why's," and "how's" for establishing an effective discipline program while promoting an…