To the Principal's Office or to the Police: Law Enforcement in Schools and Reports of Student Misconduct

• In Event: Student Discipline Policies and Practices

Abstract

The presence of law enforcement in schools has increased dramatically over the last several decades, but is under increased scrutiny in recent years. This study uses longitudinal data from Florida to examine the relationship between school-based law enforcement and reports of student misconduct to police. Using a series of district and school fixed effects, the study finds that the presence of police predicts more misconduct being report to police. The relationship is particularly pronounced for harassment, sexual harassment, physical attacks, bullying, and tobacco offenses. The findings suggest that some student behavior that could be handled by schools is instead being routed to law enforcement.

Author

• Chris Curran, University of Florida