School districts often have zero-tolerance policies regarding possession of weapons, violence, threats against other students or teachers, using cell phones during school hours, or behaviors that are deemed disruptive or defiant. These policies may promote safety, but their rigid application has led to controversy. Some schools failed to recognize that certain “behavior problems” were indicators of disabilities and punished students for learning or intellectual disorders. Recent case law reveals where and how districts have failed. This class will discuss many districts mistakes and how to protect districts from lawsuits by being vigilant and proactive.