I Do This Because I Love You: Analyzing Black Teachers' Perceptions of Zero-Tolerance Discipline Practices

• In Event: Policing, Discipline Disparities, and Race in Schools

Abstract

This proposal will examine Black teachers’ perceptions of the zero-tolerance disciplinary policies at their no-excuses urban charter school. I utilize Critical Race Theory as a lens to problematize charter school’s use of zero-tolerance policies as a tool for promoting academic excellence that is centered in whiteness. Upon problematizing zero-tolerance policies, I connect with this year’s conference theme “Accepting Educational Responsibility” by examining how Black teachers’ views towards discipline may work to reinforce dominant power structures which control and regulate Black bodies. My research is guided by the following questions: Based upon their life narratives, what are Black teachers definitions and understandings of discipline? Then based upon their narratives, how do these teachers respond to the disciplinary policies of their school?

Author

• Brian Collins, Indiana University - Indianapolis