
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, January 11, 1994                   TAG: 9401110174
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C3   EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY 
SOURCE: Associated Press
DATELINE: VIRGINIA BEACH                                LENGTH: Short

PARENTS SAY SCHOOLS ARE TOO TOUGH

A get-tough policy aimed at getting students in line has gotten out of hand in the view of some parents, who charge school officials are suspending and expelling too many children.

The number of long-term suspensions and recommended expulsions in Virginia Beach schools jumped last year from 265 to 486 - an 83 percent increase over the 1991-1992 academic year.

The number of reported incidents involving weapons rose last year from 58 to 99.

New disciplinary measures imposed two years ago give principals more reasons to suspend students as well as the power to order them home for longer periods. The code was prompted by parents and teachers who said they were frightened by what they saw as eroding discipline and safety in school.

Educators believe the new guidelines have been a deterrent. But some parents and students charge schools have gone too far. "We have to watch what we do all the time now," said Jenny Jamir, a 17-year-old senior at Tallwood High School.

Educators said that is exactly the attitude they want students to adopt.

by CNB