In preparation for our meeting on July 7, please think about the following questions:
1. What are some details from Zero Tolerance that remind you of your experience in middle school? In other words, what are some things that do not seem to have changed in the past thirty years?
2. What are some details from Zero Tolerance that seem different from your experience in middle school? In other words, what are some things that do seem to have changed in the past thirty years?
3. How do you feel about Sierra's father as a character? Does he seem real? Do you empathize with him?
4. How do you feel about Principal Besser as a character? Does he seem real? Do you empathize with him?
5. Does Zero Tolerance provide you with any insights into ways in which the American education system is well designed or poorly designed?
6. In general (not just in the context of middle school), are you in favor of zero tolerance policies? What are the advantages and disadvantages of "no exceptions"?
7. In your own experience, what are some times when children and/or adolescents respond well to strict rules? What are some times when children and/or adolescents respond better to a more lenient, compassionate approach?
AND SOME QUESTIONS THAT ARE SPECIFICALLY DESIGNED FOR ANY YOUNG PEOPLE WHO JOIN THE FIRST PART OF OUR DISCUSSION:
8. Does Zero Tolerance provide a realistic depiction of middle school life? Which parts of this book feel real? Which parts don't feel real? Are there particular characters or scenes that are well written or well explained? Is this book going to help your dad understand what it's like to be a middle schooler or teenager in the year 2021?
Henley Middle School in Crozet, Virginia