Module 2: Current Trends in Education and Educational Reform Notbook Activity 7

Question 1

Explain how zero tolerance policies complicate due process.

Answer 1

Zero tolerance policies have complicated local schools’ abilities to balance students’ rights to due process and serving students’ educational needs. Procedural due process (procedural protection against unjustified deprivation of substantive rights) is scrutinized especially in cases of suspension and expulsion. These cases most often result from disciplinary action taken by the school, which may or may not have violated a pupil’s substantive (protection against the deprivation of constitutional rights such as freedom of expression) constitutional rights

Zero Tolerance policies can hinder due process for students.

Question 2

Explain dress codes and corporal punishment related to students’ rights and responsibilities.

Answer 2

Although the First Amendment should protect students from dress codes because of their freedom of expression, school officials in many states claim that dress codes are necessary to prevent gang activity, promote safety, and reduce distractions and disruptions. The government generally sides with the schools regarding this. Many courts have also sided with schools' decisions to implement uniforms as a way to instill discipline and create a positive educational environment.
Many states (29) have banned corporal punishment, and those who still allow it have strict guidelines that have to be followed.