The school system functions as a school-to-prison pipeline, subtly criminalizing many innocent children from an early age, particularly those from marginalized communities. Strict disciplinary policies—such as suspensions, expulsions, and the presence of law enforcement in schools—contribute to higher dropout rates and increase the likelihood of students encountering the criminal justice system. Rather than prioritizing restorative approaches like counseling, many schools rely on punitive measures that fail to address the underlying issues students face. Once a student is labeled or stigmatized, it becomes difficult to escape these perceptions, especially for those who are students of color, have disabilities, or have experienced trauma.
This research will examine how socioeconomic factors in Forsyth County influence punitive school policies that push students toward the criminal justice system, and how community-based solutions can be used to mitigate this cycle. To explore this, the study will analyze historical data on the introduction of tough-on-crime policies in the 1980s, current zero-tolerance policies, and Forsyth County’s economic landscape. This analysis will demonstrate how these factors negatively impact students' psychological well-being and social and economic mobility.
The findings of this research will highlight the importance of reducing harsh punishments in schools and instead implementing restorative practices and trauma-informed pedagogy to address the root causes of student behavior. This study aims to illustrate a system that prioritizes guidance and learning opportunities over criminalization.
Tashica Bogle is a senior majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology and double minoring in Religious Studies and Creative Writing. During her time here at Salem, she has taken on several leadership roles, including serving as the current President and past Vice President of the Off-Campus Association, the current Vice President of the Black Student Union, a Judicial Council representative, a Junior Class representative, and an Orientation leader. Tashica has gained valuable experience through her internship and volunteer work with the local YWCA Teen Court Program, which has deepened her understanding of the legal system. She currently serves as a paralegal for the United States Army National Guard and, with faith and determination, aspires to pursue a career in law as either a Teen Defense Attorney or a Family Lawyer.
Latonya Davis, who prefers to be called Tony, is a senior majoring in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology. She plans to graduate in a few semesters and pursue a career as a crisis intervention counselor. Tony chose this path to help others and make a difference in their lives, even in the smallest ways. She enjoys reading, writing poetry, and spending quality time with her twins. With extensive experience in caregiving, she was blessed to have cared for her elderly mother for 13 years, a role that further deepened her compassion for others.
Kamryn McShan is a senior majoring in Sociology and Integrative Studies. She plans to pursue a career in community development and entrepreneurship, focusing on grassroots initiatives such as providing food, shelter, and essential services to the homeless. She aims to collaborate with communities to address inner-city challenges such as gentrification, resource disparities, and crime. Kamryn is dedicated to supporting youth both in and out of school through mentorship programs, tutoring, and other extracurricular activities. Kamryn is on a path to becoming an entrepreneur, civil rights activist, philanthropist, and journalist. Every day, she strives to be her best self, working to create meaningful change in the world.