Survey: Disruptive Students Hurting Tulsa School Achievement

Almost half the staffers responding to a Tulsa Public Schools survey say more student suspensions are needed, and one-in-three teachers say they don't have the authority to remove disruptive students from the classroom.

The survey results say the most common discipline issues are profanity, dress code violations, and student defiance. Teachers who say they have strong relationships with their students reported fewer discipline issues.

Superintendent Keith Ballard says the district needs to address chronic behavior problems in order to make a positive impact on student achievement.