"Zero Tolerance"-- Has it Gone Out of Hand?

Yes.
Yes it had, ever since they wrote up the policy after the Virginia Tech scare.

"Zero Tolerance" came to my attention right after Virginia Tech, when a misunderstanding had me sent to the Assis. Principal's office. Of course, I was outraged, so angry in fact that I cried right there-- and I only cry when I'm deeply infuriated.

Ever since Virginia Tech, students have been more scrutinized than ever. But you musn't get me wrong-- we should be. In the right way. Consistent behavior and serious weaponry, not "suspicious" actions and toy guns, are your red alarms.

A straight-A student cannot be suspended for plastic sporks. It just looks ridiculous on a suspension report, and if it looks that way, chances are that the teacher filing the report should stop and take a moment to reconsider. And maybe find another job to fill that black, cold pebble she/he calls a heart.

Its one of those great moments where I seriously wonder.. if the educational authority in this country simply chucked their childhood memories away when they took the job. That's the only explanation I can think of to explain how anyone with a brain could support "Zero Tolerance."

Out-of-control fear and paranoia, people. Look what it does to us.