Safety Law News for 10/5/12

  • In-school suspensions are replacing other forms of discipline in a Louisiana school district, as educators say that home is often the source of students’ problems. Local police question whether the discipline is strict enough.
  • A Maryland student said he would shoot people at school, but later told police that he was only trying to get attention. He is in counseling and it does not appear that the school will take disciplinary action.
  • After a male Texas principal paddled two female students, the district changed its policy to permit opposite-sex paddlings. The new policy only requires a female administrator to be present. Parents are upset that their daughters were bruised.

Safety Law News for 10/2/12

  • When North Carolina passed its new law to protect teachers from online student mistreatment, it included very specific details on what is illegal.

Safety Law News for 9/26/12

  • North Dakota police used drug dogs to search student cars. Marijuana was found in only three cars, and because these cars were parked off campus, the school will not take disciplinary action.

Safety Law News for 9/24/12

Safety Law News for 9/21/12

  • A Colorado school confiscated two rosaries from a student because it could connect him to the Sureno gang. The student body and community appear unimpressed, as they question basic facts in the situation.
  • In one South Carolina classroom, a 10-year-old boy threw paper, books, and desks—and then threatened to shoot a police officer. Educators recognize their ability to discipline the student, but for now, they are treating this as a police matter.
  • After two gun-related incidents, Baltimore County educators are preparing to launch an office of safety and security, and they are also focused on increasing communication with students. Students “outnumber us about 10 to 1,” one principal said.