Too many administrators – driven by spurious media reports, parent anxiety, desires for control and order, and a natural tendency to avoid controversy and cover their asses bases – are all too willing to sacrifice educational opportunities and/or essential liberties in the name of ‘safety.’ Of course we pay a cost for this, one that isn’t discussed nearly enough.

Having dealt with this just a week ago, I can tell you that the pressure from parents who are (rightfully!) motivated by fear for their own child's safety puts intense pressure on school-based administrators to violate other students' rights in the name of school safety.

It's a difficult line to walk.