I’ve noticed that when there is a report of a Zero-tolerance policy, the student is usually described as never having been in trouble before. We are moving to a situation where the good kids are afraid to blink at the wrong time for fear of punishment, while the not so good kids are free to do as they please.
That, IMO, was the whole purpose of zero tolerance policies.
Because it “wasn’t fair” that everyone didn’t get into trouble, just the “at risk” kids.
That, and taking all responsibility away from administrators for making disciplinary decisions which could get them sued.