In reflecting upon the case study presented in Pushing the Envelope: Critical Issues in Education, it is difficult to choose sides or align more closely with one participant over the other. It is quite evident in the case study that Jennifer Jones was not received well or heard clearly by many of the participants. The problem at hand is quite serious. The team notes the dilapidation of the school environment and wants to enforce a strict zero tolerance policy that, as Jones points out, is more reactive than proactive when it comes to behaviors. The case study presents three very unique approaches to overcoming the problem of an unruly student population. They present the zero tolerance policy, the idea of school uniforms and Jones introduces the notion of positive behavior support. Jones is presenting factual information when she discusses the disparity of students that are punished and reprimanded in terms of race. Those very facts are facts that go unheard …show more content…
Why does one solution to the many problems facing our school have to be the answer? If I were Jennifer Jones, I might provide articles that outline the discrepancies in student reprimands in relation to their race. I would also come to the meeting prepared to present the data that supports School Wide Positive Behavior Plans. In showing up to this meeting equipped to make a stand and defend my beliefs with evidence that supports each of my claims. Jennifer can use textual evidence to sway the participants to believe in the notion of racial “profiling” as well as support School Wide Positive Behavior Plans. In addition to Jennifer’s case, it would benefit the Dean to present the evidence that supports the zero tolerance policy. It is important when facing system wide decisions and changes that stakeholders be made fully aware of the implications and evidence behind each new