The camping knife, fork and spoon suspension of a 6 year old for violating the school's zero-tolerance policy is making the rounds this morning from the NY Times. I am not even going to comment on that story, because it is just the latest in a long line of stupid discipline from schools under zero-tolerance policies.
But, public opinion now seems firmly entrenched against all these ridiculous suspensions, yet we keep zero-tolerance policies on the books? Why? Just the CYA reason in case, God-forbid, a serious school violence incident happens at a school in your state? I can't really think of any other reason for legislators to support retention of these policies. And, if that is the only reason, then perhaps it is time return to sane school disciplinary policies.
Update: See Rich H.'s additional facts in his comment - seems like all the of facts might not have been made clear in the story.