What Is Zero Tolerance And To Whom Does It Apply?
This topic was suggested by a poster to another thread who reports that GCHS has decided against expulsion of violators of the Zero Tolerance Policy and put them into a single classroom on the GCHS campus?
The question is whether the Zero Tolerance Policy is being applied equally and justly? Is the penalty for violations of "Zero Tolerance offenses being changed because recently the children of two separate teachers were involved in violations? Should those guilty of a Zero Tolerance offense continue in the school environment and do they pose a risk to other students either by actions or examples?
Here is the School Board Policy on disciplinary actions taken directly from the school website.
Each Student Has The Right To: have the opportunity for a free education in the most appropriate learning environment. --have the opportunity for freedom of speech, expression of ideas, and of the press. expect that the school will be a safe place with no fear of bodily harm. --expect an appropriate environment conducive to learning. --not to be discriminated against on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, or disability. --expect to be fully informed of school rules and regulations.
Each Student has the Responsibility To: --know and adhere to reasonable rules and regulations established by the Board of Education and implemented by school administrators and teachers. --respect the human dignity and worth of every other individual. --refrain from libel, slanderous remarks, and obscenity in verbal and written expression. --study diligently and maintain the best possible level of academic achievement. --be punctual and present in the regular school program. --dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, cleanliness, modesty, safety, and abide by School and Board rules. --help maintain and improve the school environment, preserve school property, and exercise the utmost care while using the school facilities. --refrain from disobedience or misconduct or behavior which would lead to any physical harm or that disrupts the educational process. --respect the reasonable exercise of authority by school administrators and teachers in maintaining discipline in the school and at school sponsored activities. --obey the law and rules so as not to be subjected to ill effects or endanger others by the possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and other unauthorized substances. --carry only those materials which are acceptable under the law and accept the consequences for the articles stored in one's locker.
THE ROLE OF SCHOOL STAFF
Appropriate order and discipline must be maintained in school if every student is to have the opportunity to benefit maximally from the program offered. It is the responsibility of all staff members to apply discipline toward improving behavior and creating an atmosphere conducive to learning. It is expected that all officials, teachers, and other employees of the school system will treat the students with fundamental fairness in applying these rules. Consistency of enforcement of disciplinary codes is critical to achieving this end.
LEVELS OF OFFENSES
When a violation of the rules governing behavior occurs, the imposition of sanctions is to be expected. The following is a for level analysis of procedures and options that are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of their rights and duties. The examples of misbehavior should not be interpreted to be all inclusive because every undesirable behavior can not be listed.
Level I
The first--least serious--level involves minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --classroom disturbances --classroom tardiness --cheating and lying --abusive language, profanity, or notes—non-defiant behavior to do assignments or carry out directions --loitering in unauthorized places --excessive absences --failure to have hall pass --excessive noise outside the classroom --radios or tape players --playing cards or dice --chewing gum --violation of dress code --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
disciplinary options might include” --admonishing the student --restricting activities --requiring special assignments --assigning work details --temporary removal from class in a time-out room --issuance of demerits that might affect citizenship or deportment grades --behavior modification activities --denial of class privileges --imposition of corporal punishment--requirement of restitution. Such consequences are typically imposed by the classroom teacher. Before imposing such consequences, the teacher, concerned for the welfare of the students and guided by the principles of fundamental fairness, will make an inquiry into the incident to assure that the culprit is accurately identified, that he understands the nature of the offense, and that he was on notice as to the consequences to which he is subject to for the offense. It is important that the consequence should be reasonably related to the offense and that the more severe consequences should be reserved for important offenses or for repeated actions that have not been controllable with lesser consequences. Any explanation of conduct that the pupil may offer should be considered as the teacher decides upon the appropriate consequence.
Level II
The second level of consequences is reserved for those problems that the teachers cannot control within the scope of their classroom authority. Many of these infractions result from a continuation of level I misbehaviors, and require the intervention of personnel on the administrative level because the execution of level I disciplinary options failed to correct the situation.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --Continuation of unmodified LEVEL I misbehavior --school tardiness –truancy --smoking or possession of tobacco products --using forged notes or excuses --disruptive classroom or bus behavior --bus disturbances --failure to sign out --parking in unauthorized areas --leaving school grounds --cutting class –defiance --selling and distribution of over-counter drugs when implied to represent something other than what they are –gambling --disrespect to teachers and bus drivers --immoral conduct --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --in-school suspension--detention before or after school --suspension from school sponsored activities or from riding the bus --corporal punishment, under local board policy --changing the student's instructor within the school --restricting the honors the student is otherwise due --prohibiting the student's attendance at school functions--demanding restitution for lost, damaged, or stolen property --out of school suspension --parent conference.
These would normally be imposed by the pincipal/assistant principal upon a student who has been referred by the teacher, but only after the administrator has made his/her own inquiry into the incident. This inquiry should include hearing the accusation made by the teacher or other party, notifying the offender of the accusation and permitting him the opportunity of explaining his conduct, denying it, or stating any mitigating circumstances. In cases where there is substantial disagreement about the offense, the principal should satisfy himself as to the truth of the accusation.
Level III
For student discipline problems for which neither of the preceding is appropriate or effective, the third level of consequences may be recommended by the principal. These acts may be considered criminal, but most frequently can be handled by the disciplinary mechanisms within the school or system.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --continuation of unmodified LEVEL II misbehavior --fighting (simple) --vandalism (simple) --selling and distribution of over-counter drugs when implied to represent something other than what they are –stealing --threats to others (extortion, intimidation) --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --assigning the student to an alternative, disciplinary day-school --short-term out of school suspension --corporal punishment --temporary removal from class --call police (may be ordered to appear in court)
The change in a student's program to place him/her in the Alternative School may be mandatory as a result of a suspension or expulsion or may be voluntary based upon the recommendation by a team composed of the principal or assistant principal, the school guidance counselor, and the student (and parents when possible). Students eligible for special education services will have rules and laws pertaining to special education applied.
Level IV
The final and most severe consequences that can be imposed upon a student are LEVEL IV violations. These are acts that are criminal and are so serious that they require administrative actions which result in the immediate removal of the student from school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and a hearing by the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. School authorities are obligated to report clearly established criminal offenses to law enforcement authorities.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --unmodified LEVEL III misconducts –extortion --bomb threat --possession/use/transfer of firearms or dangerous weapons --assault/battery –vandalism --theft/possession/sale of stolen property –arson --furnishing/selling/ using/possession of unauthorized substances --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --suspend the student out of school for a period exceeding ten days--expel the student --alternative school --call police (may be ordered to appear in court) Behaviors in this category require a review by the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. The hearing by this group must be held, a decision rendered, and notification of the decision must be provided to the parents and/or the student and the principal no later than ten days after the beginning of the suspension. The principal or the student has a right to request a review by the Board. If this occurs, the Board shall review the DHA records and affirm the decision of the hearing authority, modify the decision to a lesser penalty, or grant a hearing before the Board.¹ When either a long-term or short-term suspension occurs during the last ten days of any term or semester, the student may seek permission of the principal to take such final examination or submit such required work as is necessary to complete the course of instruction for that semester.
ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES
The Board has zero tolerance for the following offenses, with these violations carrying an automatic one full calendar year expulsion from school:
Firearms Students shall not possess, handle, or attempt to use a firearm in school buildings or on school grounds at any time or in school vehicles and/or buses or off school grounds at a school sponsored activity. Firearms include, but are not limited to any firearm, explosive, explosive weapon, bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, switchblade knife, or knuckles.
Drugs Students will not possess, distribute, or be under the influence of illegal drugs in school buildings, or on school grounds, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school sponsored activity at any time, whether on or off school grounds.
Battery Any student committing battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, School Resource Officer or any other employee will be expelled for one full year.
Allen Barrett
The question is whether the Zero Tolerance Policy is being applied equally and justly? Is the penalty for violations of "Zero Tolerance offenses being changed because recently the children of two separate teachers were involved in violations? Should those guilty of a Zero Tolerance offense continue in the school environment and do they pose a risk to other students either by actions or examples?
Here is the School Board Policy on disciplinary actions taken directly from the school website.
Each Student Has The Right To: have the opportunity for a free education in the most appropriate learning environment. --have the opportunity for freedom of speech, expression of ideas, and of the press. expect that the school will be a safe place with no fear of bodily harm. --expect an appropriate environment conducive to learning. --not to be discriminated against on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national origin, or disability. --expect to be fully informed of school rules and regulations.
Each Student has the Responsibility To: --know and adhere to reasonable rules and regulations established by the Board of Education and implemented by school administrators and teachers. --respect the human dignity and worth of every other individual. --refrain from libel, slanderous remarks, and obscenity in verbal and written expression. --study diligently and maintain the best possible level of academic achievement. --be punctual and present in the regular school program. --dress and groom in a manner that meets reasonable standards of health, cleanliness, modesty, safety, and abide by School and Board rules. --help maintain and improve the school environment, preserve school property, and exercise the utmost care while using the school facilities. --refrain from disobedience or misconduct or behavior which would lead to any physical harm or that disrupts the educational process. --respect the reasonable exercise of authority by school administrators and teachers in maintaining discipline in the school and at school sponsored activities. --obey the law and rules so as not to be subjected to ill effects or endanger others by the possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, and other unauthorized substances. --carry only those materials which are acceptable under the law and accept the consequences for the articles stored in one's locker.
THE ROLE OF SCHOOL STAFF
Appropriate order and discipline must be maintained in school if every student is to have the opportunity to benefit maximally from the program offered. It is the responsibility of all staff members to apply discipline toward improving behavior and creating an atmosphere conducive to learning. It is expected that all officials, teachers, and other employees of the school system will treat the students with fundamental fairness in applying these rules. Consistency of enforcement of disciplinary codes is critical to achieving this end.
LEVELS OF OFFENSES
When a violation of the rules governing behavior occurs, the imposition of sanctions is to be expected. The following is a for level analysis of procedures and options that are designed to protect all members of the educational community in the exercise of their rights and duties. The examples of misbehavior should not be interpreted to be all inclusive because every undesirable behavior can not be listed.
Level I
The first--least serious--level involves minor misbehavior on the part of the student which impedes orderly classroom procedures or interferes with the orderly operation of the school.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --classroom disturbances --classroom tardiness --cheating and lying --abusive language, profanity, or notes—non-defiant behavior to do assignments or carry out directions --loitering in unauthorized places --excessive absences --failure to have hall pass --excessive noise outside the classroom --radios or tape players --playing cards or dice --chewing gum --violation of dress code --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
disciplinary options might include” --admonishing the student --restricting activities --requiring special assignments --assigning work details --temporary removal from class in a time-out room --issuance of demerits that might affect citizenship or deportment grades --behavior modification activities --denial of class privileges --imposition of corporal punishment--requirement of restitution. Such consequences are typically imposed by the classroom teacher. Before imposing such consequences, the teacher, concerned for the welfare of the students and guided by the principles of fundamental fairness, will make an inquiry into the incident to assure that the culprit is accurately identified, that he understands the nature of the offense, and that he was on notice as to the consequences to which he is subject to for the offense. It is important that the consequence should be reasonably related to the offense and that the more severe consequences should be reserved for important offenses or for repeated actions that have not been controllable with lesser consequences. Any explanation of conduct that the pupil may offer should be considered as the teacher decides upon the appropriate consequence.
Level II
The second level of consequences is reserved for those problems that the teachers cannot control within the scope of their classroom authority. Many of these infractions result from a continuation of level I misbehaviors, and require the intervention of personnel on the administrative level because the execution of level I disciplinary options failed to correct the situation.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --Continuation of unmodified LEVEL I misbehavior --school tardiness –truancy --smoking or possession of tobacco products --using forged notes or excuses --disruptive classroom or bus behavior --bus disturbances --failure to sign out --parking in unauthorized areas --leaving school grounds --cutting class –defiance --selling and distribution of over-counter drugs when implied to represent something other than what they are –gambling --disrespect to teachers and bus drivers --immoral conduct --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --in-school suspension--detention before or after school --suspension from school sponsored activities or from riding the bus --corporal punishment, under local board policy --changing the student's instructor within the school --restricting the honors the student is otherwise due --prohibiting the student's attendance at school functions--demanding restitution for lost, damaged, or stolen property --out of school suspension --parent conference.
These would normally be imposed by the pincipal/assistant principal upon a student who has been referred by the teacher, but only after the administrator has made his/her own inquiry into the incident. This inquiry should include hearing the accusation made by the teacher or other party, notifying the offender of the accusation and permitting him the opportunity of explaining his conduct, denying it, or stating any mitigating circumstances. In cases where there is substantial disagreement about the offense, the principal should satisfy himself as to the truth of the accusation.
Level III
For student discipline problems for which neither of the preceding is appropriate or effective, the third level of consequences may be recommended by the principal. These acts may be considered criminal, but most frequently can be handled by the disciplinary mechanisms within the school or system.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --continuation of unmodified LEVEL II misbehavior --fighting (simple) --vandalism (simple) --selling and distribution of over-counter drugs when implied to represent something other than what they are –stealing --threats to others (extortion, intimidation) --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --assigning the student to an alternative, disciplinary day-school --short-term out of school suspension --corporal punishment --temporary removal from class --call police (may be ordered to appear in court)
The change in a student's program to place him/her in the Alternative School may be mandatory as a result of a suspension or expulsion or may be voluntary based upon the recommendation by a team composed of the principal or assistant principal, the school guidance counselor, and the student (and parents when possible). Students eligible for special education services will have rules and laws pertaining to special education applied.
Level IV
The final and most severe consequences that can be imposed upon a student are LEVEL IV violations. These are acts that are criminal and are so serious that they require administrative actions which result in the immediate removal of the student from school, the intervention of law enforcement authorities, and a hearing by the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. School authorities are obligated to report clearly established criminal offenses to law enforcement authorities.
Examples of undesirable behavior: --unmodified LEVEL III misconducts –extortion --bomb threat --possession/use/transfer of firearms or dangerous weapons --assault/battery –vandalism --theft/possession/sale of stolen property –arson --furnishing/selling/ using/possession of unauthorized substances --harassment (sexual, racial, ethnic, religious)
Disciplinary options might include: --suspend the student out of school for a period exceeding ten days--expel the student --alternative school --call police (may be ordered to appear in court) Behaviors in this category require a review by the Disciplinary Hearing Authority. The hearing by this group must be held, a decision rendered, and notification of the decision must be provided to the parents and/or the student and the principal no later than ten days after the beginning of the suspension. The principal or the student has a right to request a review by the Board. If this occurs, the Board shall review the DHA records and affirm the decision of the hearing authority, modify the decision to a lesser penalty, or grant a hearing before the Board.¹ When either a long-term or short-term suspension occurs during the last ten days of any term or semester, the student may seek permission of the principal to take such final examination or submit such required work as is necessary to complete the course of instruction for that semester.
ZERO TOLERANCE OFFENSES
The Board has zero tolerance for the following offenses, with these violations carrying an automatic one full calendar year expulsion from school:
Firearms Students shall not possess, handle, or attempt to use a firearm in school buildings or on school grounds at any time or in school vehicles and/or buses or off school grounds at a school sponsored activity. Firearms include, but are not limited to any firearm, explosive, explosive weapon, bowie knife, hawk bill knife, ice pick, dagger, slingshot, switchblade knife, or knuckles.
Drugs Students will not possess, distribute, or be under the influence of illegal drugs in school buildings, or on school grounds, in school vehicles or buses, or at any school sponsored activity at any time, whether on or off school grounds.
Battery Any student committing battery upon any teacher, principal, administrator, School Resource Officer or any other employee will be expelled for one full year.
Allen Barrett
posted by Allen Barrett | 11:55 AM
54 Comments:
Since the beginning of the "zero tolerance" school board policy, there have been exceptions to that policy. Which probably means it is not worth the paper it is written on. I can say this for sure - if my child were to violate this policy he/she has more to fear at home than at school. They have two parents that would make sure it NEVER happened again. But, they also have two parents who would hire an attorney if the school board tried to enforce the policy on our child. Just because we are not part of "Giles County Royalty" does not mean my child will be treated any differently than the other children.
I guess the question to ask about this whole thing is this - What does the "no child left behind" mandates have to do with this new twist? Maybe this is the school board's way of keeping GCHS off the states targeted list.
Well, just go to the state of Tennessee report card on their website (google Tennessee State Report card)...and you'll see that the HIGH SCHOOL - at GCHS - ALREADY IS a TARGETED school - why? Graduation rates! They fell this last year (08) and word has it, the school failed to meet the benchmark again for 08-09. It's been a targeted school ever since the report came out last fall, yet you will not read it in the paper, because Tee keeps it out of the paper. So what happens when you are a targeted school and you don't make the grade? Guess we're about to find out! Word has it the state steps in. Things would change then!
The High school is just a mini Pulaski, those families who run the city/county also run the school. The prejudice is prevalent and the Principal has a big hand in what is allowed to go on. What punishment is good for one should be good for all.
I won't blame it all on the principal though, the teachers also play a major role in how discipline is doled out there and so does the no child left behind.
If you are a special ed child of anykind you can get away with just about anything.
Children will make mistakes but if they are taught correctly at home they are more apt to put more thought into their actions before making the decision to do something that will adversely affect the rest of their life. This brings to mind last years incident of the students who defaced Richlands ball fields punsihment compared to the punishment of the students who started a food fight-good ole boy system in action.
When teacher's children start to get involved in some of the trouble then you really try to find an alternative to being expelled or suspended or going to A school. 0(zero) means 0(zero)!!!!!!!!!!!
I know of a teacher's kid in A school, good polite kid, never been in trouble, and part of Pulaski "elite"...wrong place wrong time is only reason he is there...
So just where are they putting this new Alternative Classroom? They are taking away the back stage area - where performers enter the stage. Unless the school is going to allow groups to use the classroom after hours, there will be no way to enter the stage, except from the audience, or from the outside door on the other side. That's not fair to the music and drama who use that space. Also, what about the outside groups like Gospel Music and others like the dance studios that use that space? Will they no longer be able to enter from back stage? AND - those groups pay to use the space. What if they decide to take their shows elsewhere, will the County miss out on that money? They bring in THOUSANDS every year, renting out the auditorium. Will that income now go away? Again, another example where the problem kids get more consideration (and a brand newly cleaned/painted space) than the kids who DON'T get in trouble. And 11:55 - just because the kid you mentioned hasn't been in any trouble doesn't mean he wasn't guilty before - he just wasn't caught.
This whole thing is just ridiculous. Do we put prisons in our libraries - no. This is absurd. Let's take a drug toting student who may or may not be selling it there, tell him/her that there is a no zero tolerance and put him/her right back in the same environment - If I had kids at that school my concern would be for the safety and well being of the students still there. I have never heard about more politically driven, money motivated, numbers games in education in my life. The school board, the school administration and those backing this should be ashamed! I certainly don't have all the answers but I can confidently say that I don't believe this is one of them. Once again, a wonderful showing of our fearless, Alabamian, leader - Tee Jackson.
There are more reasons to fear for the safety of your children at GCHS than the fact they are making a mockery of the zero tolerance policy.
10:36 Where did you get the idea that thousands of dollars are paid for use of the auditorium? I think you better check again. It is my understanding that the only money paid is for a custodian to clean up afterwards. Please find out and let us know.
Your understanding is wrong you pay the custodian and then pay for the use of the auditorium.
What I don't understand is if people want to know something why don't they find out themselves instead of always asking others to do it. All you have to do is call the principal at the high school.
Because sometimes a person is too close to the situation and does not want to stick their neck out.
Well sticking your neck out or not...when you make a false assertion, then you better be ready to back it up with facts...Facts that YOU'VE checked out rather than asking someone else to verify what they already know to be true.
The trouble with zero tolerance is the fact that it is enforced by bureaucrats who are eaten alive with liberalism.
If serious enough for expulsion, then let the courts decide the remedy and punishment! I'm not afraid of the Constitution. It guarantees that right. I will fight for it's existence. Does that make your skin crawl?
The rights to property, freedom, justice, including the right of self defense does not begin or end at the school house door! If someone hits you, you have a right to deck them! If someone steals your property, you have a right to take it back! Will you expel someone for defending their sister or little sibling. Will you treat them the same as the bully or thief? Is the objective making sure no one fights for their freedom?
School systems are filled with little people with big ambitions of pacifying the world.
Bad people rely on these idiots so they can take over! If we don't learn anything else, protecting freedom, self, family, and country should be first and formost! In a sterile enviornment sanitized to protect everyone from the goodness of God, we find the insanity of dictatorial obedience to the idol of mindless tranquility - the peace and security only a dungeon can provide!
liberalism is a mental disorder!
Amen 11:47!
Man, that heading was way too long to read.
To May 13. Bet you haven't read any books lately have you? Why would anyone get on here and advertise the fact they are too lazy to read, seems like they would just keep quiet and not comment.
Howard,
Your arrogance is noted. Just because the writer said the heading was too long to read does NOT mean he or she is not just as smart as you think you are. Think.
Tacky and totally stupid of you, Howie. Now go back to your comic book!
I never said I was smarter than any one only that I couldn't understand why someone would publicly declare themselves to lazy to read. Perhaps I hit a never and the guilt just got to you 7:28 and 1:57.
you should have been at the school board meeting Thursday night. The students that will be using the new alternative school at the high school will have computers, freshly painted walls, go to lunch first, etc. WOW! How do I get assigned to this club?
It will be a "badge of honor" for some of the creeps they send to it.
Zero tolerance - zero affect. A bunch of sheep trying to control a pack of wolves. BAAAAAAA BAAAAAAAAAA Bull crap!
howie
You hit a never? No, you didn't actually state that were smarter. You just suggested someone else's laziness because YOU read more into the post than was there. But I think you knew perfectly well what the writer meant. Do you have anything else?
Doesn't zero tolerance mean zero tolerance??? Why are we making accommodations for these offenders? They will surely become productive individuals if we keep allowing them to trample all over the rules. Since this is going to cost the taxpayers more $$$, why don't we let the students parents contribute to this fund from the day their child is submitted to this program? Why put the tax burden on me when my child was raised to behave and show respect. I personally do not want someone who has violated the zero tolerance policy allowed to attend school with my child. Every parent should feel this way. This is just an attempt to keep our high school from being taken over by the state. Well, from where I sit maybe the state could run it better than our director and administrators are. Although I am sure it will affect our funding from the state, perhaps it is a lesson to us all that we should not tolerate our children being in such an environment such as this where offenders and re-offenders get off light, rather suffer the consequences of their actions. In my opinion this is no way to prepare our youth for the real world. How many times can these students continue to break the zero tolerance rule before they are completely thrown out of the school system? Bad behavior distracts other children from receiving the quality education the deserve. Not to mention, our directors motto,"Providing Academic Excellence in
a Wholesome Environment". Our academics are not so excellent and the environment is less than wholesome. I would love to know if anyone else feels like I do. I was in attendance of the board meeting and was unaware this issue was going to be discussed and was appareled that our school board members would even consider deciding in favor of this idea. As it stands now and in the past we have no representation from any district on this school board. This board has failed our citizens miserably if these decisions continue to be made in regards to the safety of our children.
I agree 12:18 this situation is absurd. There have been many who were punished severely under the Zero Tolerance policy but when it starts to affect the wrong people's children then there has to be a change. Yes it is about numbers and funding and that seems to override providing a safe situation for our children to learn in.
Why the teachers aren't raising sand about this I don't know but their job will be made more difficult when this is started. The school board once again has been lied to and used as cover for the inept superintendent.
I certainly hope parents of the children that have been subject to the zero tolerance policy will stand up and have a voice. There have been several children zero tolerance applied to and others who have gotten a break. Why does our school board continue to allow children who have brought a gun to school or been caught with drugs be given second chances? These children do not belong in the school system with the other children who are there and are following the rules. I hope those parents whose children have been affected will stand up and ask why other children who commit the same or worse offenses are allowed back in school. This in my opinion is a violation of the zero tolerance policy by our director, administrators and the board. I don't think it is hard to understand that zero tolerance means zero tolerance. Is is abundantly clear there is a serious issue of discrimination going on in our school system. We could start by firing our director and go down from there. Students at GCHS deserve a better principal than Bobby Hastings. I hope people will make a stir about this because it appears that is the only way you can get anything done correctly in this county.
These stsudents will not be at the high school with the general population. They will be at the Alternative School and not in the same class with those students either. Violent offenders will not be allowed in this program. These students will be isolated from the others at all times. They will enter at a separate door and be ina separate classroom. This is not something new in our area. Most school districts are doing the same thing to try and control the drop out rate. Most students who are kicked out of school at this age aren't coming back to school. Do you think that they are sitting at home behaving themselves? Give them a chance to get an education and improve themselves. some of these kids were first timers and at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Do you really believe the students will be first offense, non-violent offenders? What about the star basketball player getting busted for drugs? Will that student go to alternative school and be kicked off the basketball team? And, what part of zero tolerance does the school board not get? If they have the policy, they need to live by it. Or, strike it from their policy book. Seems it only applies to certain students, not ALL students.
These students will be at GCHS in a special room already freshly painted and decorated just for them. The schedule is already made out.
It's new math that makes a zero two or three.
There are only three things that fall under "ZERO" tolerance according to the school code, DANGEROUS WEAPONS; DRUGS and PHYSICAL ASSAULT AGAINST SCHOOL EMPLOYEES.
Can anyone give a good reason why anyone committing these infractions should not be sent to jail instead of home to watch TV or to a special room at school?
What does jail time have to do with the school system. The school does not decide whether someone spends time in jail, that is the court. If someone is in jail they won't be at school. If they bring weapons or physically assault someone they won't be at school either. Just because a policy was one way in the past does not mean it should not be changed. If your child or grandchild was caught with a drug for the first time would you rather see them in school in a guarded location or out on the street doing nothing. If an older teenager is kicked out of school for a year, what is the chance that they will come back and graduate? Do you think that if they can stay in under these new circumstances that they might actually graduate and have a chance in the adult world. We don't need more dropouts, I don't care what the problem is with the state rules, we need graduates. I cannot judge whether someone was treated unfairly in the past but I can see giving kids a chance in the future.
Zero tolerance means zero tolerance. If we don't abide by our own rules then rewrite the policy. The students who violate the zero tolerance policy should ponder the consequences before making a "mistake". We should not have to tolerate bad behavior repeatedly.
From a valuable resource it has been brought to my attention that a certain student had a weapon on them and has been returned to school. These administrators do not care about the safety of children or that a student gets to graduate. They only care about the BEP money and keeping our school from being a target school and the state coming in and taking over. This is a true reflection of who we have in charge at the school and our director. Neither one get high marks in my opinion. The school board needs to pressure the director to fire Bobby Hastings and then the board needs to turn around and fire the director. From what I have been hearing lately they have justification to do so. So, Mrs. Murrey and her board members need to be doing the right thing. That is if their own personal agendas can take a back seat for a moment. What a sad school board we have. We all deserve better representation.
Jail is where those violating the descriptions of zero tolerance, but they can not be prosecuted unless the administration is willing to bring charges or allow the SRO to bring criminal charges against the student.
While your desire to have more kids graduate shouldn't the greater desire be that they actually learn enough to justify graduating? Clearly by keeping a person in school that has brought a gun to school, sold drugs at school or beat up a teacher, all criminal activities, simply by having them in the school building is a disruption and a hindrance to all the other students who are actually interested in getting an education.
Ruby, it has never been said that anyone bringing a weapon to school would be included in this program. Drugs are another story. These students won't be around the other students at all, just in the same building. They will be in a separate room with a separate entrance. They will eat lunch, go to the restroom and etc. separate from other students. Violent offenses will not be included in the program.
If violent offenses are not included in this program then why are they along with drugs included in the zero tolerance policy. Once again why have a policy that you don't enforce across the board? Either change the policy or enforce it. So far the problem has been in selective enforcement not in the crime itself.
They have alternative school over by the health department for these kind of offenders.
Certain students digressions are covered up and it has been brought to my attention that a student that has been caught with a gun and/or drugs is being allowed back in the school. Maybe rumor, maybe not. I am sorry but, a wall and a separate entrance does not satisfy me as a parent in allowing a criminal back into the school system. That wall is not bullet proof and you are fooling yourself if you think kids that do not follow rules with stay in that designated room being designed for them. This is a joke and horrible, big ugly blemish on our school system. Fire Jackson, Hastings and the whole school board needs to resign if this is allowed!
This is supposed to be housed at the Alternative school. People with gun offences would not be allowed there.
Well, I know for certain students that have brought knives to school spend time at the alternative school. Drugs also. These are students from the school where I teach. They are suppose to be expelled for a year according to the school board policy, but are sent instead to the alternative school for a time. Once again, if you have a zero tolerance policy, use it. If you are not going to follow the policy, get rid of it or amend it to what you are going to do. It is silly to call a policy zero tolerance when it is anything but.
6:21 pm thank you for bringing that to light.Everyone that has a child in the school system should feel concerned.Question is what are we going to do about it?We can't allow this to continue.When our children's safety is at hand it should be paramount.The director, administrators, and board show a lack of concern on this matter.We should not even entertain the idea of abolishing the zero tolerance policy just because it is not enforced.What we need is heads to roll for turning a blind eye or better yet accommodating those who willfully do not follow policy.Didn't anyone learn anything from what happened at Richland?Drugs are a loaded weapon too.
Drug addiction in this country is out the roof. A druggie has the potential to be a pusher therefore, making all students at risk for addiction.We also have a problem at GCHS with students coming in with water bottles full of vodka or other clear types of alcohol.How do staff not smell that?? And even scarier, if they do why are they not doing something about it? It is one thing to not be aware of the problem, it is quite another to dismiss or ignore it.
Sounds like 'Cupcake Prison' right here in Giles County........
Welcome to the world of the Giles County Board of Education - really they ARE consistant with EVERYONE...rules and policies are EQUALLY distorted for students, parents, teachers and employees of the board. ISN'T THAT FAIR?! Not really if you are one of the MANY who got the skrews put to you or your child.
I have always heard 'money talks'. Money is speaking LOUDLY to the board of education. $$ said, 'Treat the students 'differently' if their parents have $$ or influence.' 'We (the board and TJ) will need to call in favors when the PUBLIC becomes suspicious of our 'actions'.' Heard Richland High School got a new team building or something after the FUN night of 'football field abuse' by some little 'Buds' and her friends last year.
Now other parents with money or their families money think drugs are 'no big deal'. Their child is innocent, because the child did not know the other child had drugs; just happen to be riding in first child's car.....guilty by association. Whatever happened to, 'be careful who you hang around with' and 'pick your friends wisely.' Not sure, but I heard Giles County has a BIG drug problem.....not to leave out GCHS.
Cupcake prison is RIGHT! Wouldn't be surprised if the 'inmates' could order from Reeves Deli everyday for lunch. Oh sure, cell phones are surely permitted in Cupcake prison.
6:21 'Staff' at the schools HAVE to have principals who WILL enforce the rules. If the principal DOES NOT take the lead, ANYTHING GOES. If the board or director refuse to help - well, now you have giles county public schools.
Plan of action: Concerned citizens should gather, talk about the real issues (try to keep the gossip down), appoint a spokesperson, get on the board's agenda (be sure to follow the board's 'rules' to get on the agenda), contact Nashville news and state your case. The board will just look at you and say 'Thank you for sharing your concerns. We will look into it.' Next board meeting do the SAME thing until you (as a group) are taken seriously. May take a six months to a year or more. Ask yourself, what is your child's education and safety worth?? It WILL take a large, peaceful group of concerned citizens showing up at each board meeting to represent the unfair practices of the director and board.
Good Luck!
They will only say they will look into and and nothing will be done. What needs to be done is colon cleansing of the entire board. Next election everyone needs to go and a whole new slate of capable individuals who are unshaken by our director and willing to make decisions representative of their constituency as well as the best interest of Giles County student and employees of the system. Shouldn't be hard to replace the current board if a few dedicated individuals willing to do the right thing run for election. Needs to be people who do not like Jackson and want to see the best for our school system.
What does personal feelings toward Jackson have to do with anything? I can like the person but dislike what they do. Although, his actions or inactions has made me very wary of him as a person. Don't think he has much of a backbone, but then the school board members don't seem to either. They have policies on the books they choose to ignore and that is not acceptable. You make the rules, then you need to live by them.
Let me rephrase what I meant. People who do not like him because of his ethics and job not well-done. Personal has everything to do with it when you go to him personally with a problem involving the safety of your child and he does nothing about. At that point, it has become personal. As a taxpayer paying his salary that again makes it personal when he shirks his responsibility to acknowledge my concerns involving my child's safety. I hope that clears up any misunderstanding. Not that I expect for you to agree.
If it's "zero" why don't it mean none?
I have to disagree with the poster who feels the board needs to be replaced completely. With only three sure votes and one swing vote to make a slim majority this board has done more to make things right than was ever attempted by the previous two boards.
Even with a firm majority the board would still be constrained by certain policies and laws.
Certainly there are things that need changing, people are still not being treated equally, and many are shown no respect by the system but we must remember how far the board has come from being a mere echo of the director in all things to standing up and saying no to many things that were knowingly wrong.
I appreciate those members that seek to be fair in their actions and commend those who have stood firm against what they knew was wrong. My hope is that with the next election more strong members will joint the board and make a majority with the strength and will to do the right thing. Please give them your support and some time. Observe closely and tell them when you disagree but please tell them you also agree and support them in their efforts to do a good job. Allen Barrett
Mrs. Murrey had Mr. Jackson put a stop to the remodeling of the room off of the auditoriam. She told Hastings to find another place to put ISS and the other students that need to have help to up the graduation rate. You learn alot when you sit through a whole work session. More gets said and done than board given credit for. According to some policy Mr. Jackson or Hastings can come up with a program unless the board approves. They did not approve this program and the board is the one who got it moved to A-school.
5:08 Sorry, I am a little confused....Are you saying the board did not approve the 'plush' alternative school at GCHS? So, it is being moved back to the original alternative school? THANK YOU to Mrs. Murrey for stopping tax dollars spent on the 'plush' alternative room at GCHS; as a 4th grade teacher did not have enough new textbooks to use with her students this past school year. She and her students NEVER got the same books the rest of the 4th grade, at her school, received.
WAB you are so right! There are three board members who are trying to investigate issues and see that policy is inforced as it is written. There is also another board member who 'sometimes' tries to listen. The other three are just blowing smoke. One has 'stars' in her eyes everytime she looks at Jackson. I think the 'stars' get in the way of her 'thinking' process.
There is one fact the citizens of Giles County seem to forget; the board of education IS the 'boss' of the director of schools. If the director fails to follow policy and/or law and the board does not take up the slack, then the board is also at fault. The board CAN fire the director WITHOUT a buyout.
I would love to give credit where credit is due to our school board but, all I keep noticing is the lip service that everything gets, void of any action. It has been my experience that you have to beg and plead to get them to listen and practically threaten litigation. That in my opinion is not what I call an effective school board. All we have heard from a particular school board member is how they want jackson gone. Well, we are waiting. The board supervises the director and there have been several questionable instances where nothing has publicly been said or done. If it is true that the special room in the auditorium has been axed then hooray! Will this be announced at this month's school board meeting. On another note, what has been resolved with Bridgett Wiser and Sherry Polly? School Board Policy was broken. Why haven't we heard anymore about that and why if a policy was broken isn't that employee being reprimanded? What about the students that Jackson allows back in GCHS that have broken the zero tolerance policy. Why are those kids being allowed back? Why do the policies stand for some and not for others? Is this being looked into by our board? If so, we should be apprised of it publicly. Why has there not been any update on the insurance situation? I see a lot of responsibility at the feet of the school board and see very little action. I attend the school board meetings and keep up with everything going on. I give credit where credit where credit is due, I just think this board chooses what battles to fight and not fight, for whatever reason.
Yes or no..is the Alternative School being moved to GCHS for the upcoming school year?
Concerned Parent
Could someone give this concerned parent an answer to their question. I also would like to hear an answer to this question.
The proof is in the pudding or should I say substantial evidence that you can hand over to the board that the DA will take and run with it. It is left up to the DA to file a suit and so far he hasn't felt that any of the information he has gotten on Jackson was worth his time or effort. So don't blame anyone on the board, unless you put something in their hands to give to the DA to get him fired up.
So are you saying that any violation of his contract must also be illegal? Are there not violations that are not necessarily criminal, but unethical? Does his contract state the only way he can be removed is to commit a crime that the da can prosecute, otherwise anything goes?
I do not think so. Just in case you didn't know, many many things are not good business practices but are not illegal. Gimme a break!
George
Last I heard the room was NOT going to be added to GCHS. The left and right hands (Hastings and Jackson) were talking from both sides of their mouths...(nothing new, there), but a group of concerned parents called their board members to complain. I hope all of you did the same. The blog can get the word out, but it's the calls from the people who vote the board in that are critical to change. Complaints here are only that - complaints. Air them with your board member. Hastings needs to go. Then Tee right behind him. There is a reason that some of the best GCHS teachers requested a transfer a few years back. Teachers can't discpline at GCHS because Hastings won't back them up. So many teachers just turn their heads to the bullying, the lack of respect, etc. I heard it used to be a good school...till about 5 years ago. Hastings came and down it went. The 2 years till his retirement can't come soon enough! Did you hear about the family who visited the HS from out of state? There were two kids necking in the lobby, no one was in the office, then when they did show the prospective family was treated poorly (like all parents are treated by the HS secretary). The family didn't come - any the secretary ...she's always in a hurry to get you off the phone. She must absolutely HATE her job, she can never seem to utter a kind word, or deal with parents with consideration. Maybe working for Hastings has done that to her. We need a wholesale change. There are board members who want change, but they can be so easily hoodwinked. Told one thing, while another thing happens. If you're not there every day, you really don't know. They do what they can and Bev is on the right track, but you can't trip up Tee or Hastings without a LOT of information. They're quite skilled at keeping their shenanigans under wraps. Like ask them about their standing...and they'll probably squirm. No where have I read about the fact the high school is on the 'watch' list - for a low graduation rate. You can go to the state department of education website and see for yourself. Two years in a row!
So is BMS (on watch list)and no the secretary had issues way before her high school job!
Anonymous parent
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