 |
San Benito County Grand Jury |
|||||
|
|
||||||
|
Education Committee III. UNFAIR DISCIPLINE AT SAN BENITO HIGH SCHOOL BACKGROUND The Grand Jury received information suggesting there was selective enforcement of discipline at the high school. METHOD OF REVIEW Interviews OBSERVATIONS, FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS The Grand Jury was informed of various problems facing the high school today, including gang-related issues. The school has a "Zero Tolerance" policy (drugs, weapons and violence) and makes every effort to enforce it. At the beginning of each year the Student-Parent Handbook is mailed to the home of every enrolled student. Upon examination, the Grand Jury concluded that the book is complete and comprehensive, that it includes a current year calendar of events, a letter from the Principal, a list of expectations, Education Guidelines, attendance requirements, including a detailed list of the types of absences that will not be excused. It contains as well, a detailed description of discipline policy, information about student activities and athletics, the California Education Code, relevant Penal Codes and the "Zero Tolerance" policy. After review of the Student-Parent Handbook, the Grand Jury concluded that the high school had accomplished its purpose of informing students and parents about their rights and responsibilities. When a parent formally objects to discipline imposed on a student, the Grand Jury learned there is a lengthy process and specific procedures that must be followed. These could lead up to a review before the San Benito High School District Board. The Grand Jury revisited the high school to inquire about allegations that when students were disciplined, a staff member would verbally abuse and harass the students, so as to cause them to act out, and thus, receive a more intense form of discipline. Staff was not aware of any such accusation or situation, but said the allegations would be investigated and, if true, action would be taken. At present, the school has no policy requiring written responses to a complaining parent in the event that allegation of harassment or imposition of unfair discipline is found to be true. The Grand Jury was informed that San Benito High School is working hard to maintain an atmosphere of respect between students and staff. RECOMMENDATIONS The Grand Jury recommends that:
AFFECTED AGENCIES San Benito High School District RESPONSE REQUIRED California Penal Code, §933, requires that a response to this final report’s recommendations be delivered to the presiding judge of the Superior Court within 90 days of the receipt of the report.
|
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
About the
Grand Jury |
||||||
