By Fox23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Tulsa Public Schools is launching a new “No Fight Zone” policy as the district works to prevent student conflicts from escalating into violence at school and beyond campus.
Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson said the policy is designed to encourage students to seek help from adults before a disagreement turns physical.
The district’s new approach comes amid ongoing concern about youth violence in Tulsa. City leaders have previously pointed to juvenile crime and groups of young people becoming involved in dangerous activity.
Johnson said TPS staff are aware that conflicts can develop outside school — during weekends, summers and holiday breaks — before carrying into classrooms and hallways.
Students are encouraged to:
- Request a conflict-resolution card.
- Seek help from a trusted staff member, teacher, administrator or other adult.
- Speak with a school counselor.
- Ask a parent or guardian to pick them up if they do not feel safe.
- Go to a de-escalation or wellness room for support.
If a fight breaks out, TPS said students will receive de-escalation intervention along with disciplinary consequences. Students involved in physical altercations will be placed in an alternative education setting with behavioral or academic support, according to the district.
If violent behavior continues, TPS said it will consider additional educational alternatives while working to maintain safety for the school community.
Johnson said early intervention can make a difference.
“You actually have adults that are in this building that are wanting to hear from you,” she said. “They want to help you problem solve. They want to conflict resolve.”
