Citation

Morrison GM, D'Incau B. Educ. Treat. Child. 1997; 20(3): 316-335.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1997, West Virginia University Press)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Zero-tolerance policies have caused significant increases in the number of students being recommended for expulsion. The cases of one district's expulsion files over a two year period were examined. Expulsion cases were categorized into the following groups: "First Offense", "Disconnected", "Troubled", and "Socialized Delinquent". Descriptions of the expulsion offense, disciplinary action, schooling history (including special education identification) and selected risk and resiliency factors were described for each of these groups. The results indicated that the majority of the offenses were committed by students who would not generally be considered to be dangerous to the school environment. Students who are recommended for expulsion have below average grades and achievement scores. The different expulsion profiles vary in terms of the extent to which their records reflect emotional and family problems and the extent to which they have documented attendance and disciplinary records. A greater portion of cases than would normally be expected have identified special education needs. The indicators described in this study are discussed in terms of their future utility in prevention efforts and research.

Language: en