Black Male Perspectives on Their Educational Experiences in High School

Abstract

This study examines the impact of the zero-tolerance policies on Black males’ educational experiences and outcomes. Individual interviews were conducted with Black males who dropped out of high school. Using counter-storytelling within a critical race theory framework, Black males discussed the influence of the zero-tolerance policies on their school experiences. These men’s narratives affirm that these policies created an inhospitable school environment and poor student–teacher relationship. Furthermore, school personnel’s use of the most punitive measures of the policies, suspension and expulsion of students, led to their school failure.