Education: Getting Tough

New Jersey Principal Joe Clark kicks up a storm about discipline in city schools

If tough love is your thing, you can find a lot to love about Joe Clark. Bullhorn cradled in one arm, a stack of books and papers resting in the other, the 48-year-old principal of Eastside High in down-at-the-heels Paterson, N.J. (pop. 140,000), charms and bullies his way through the bustling corridors of his ordered domain like an old-time ward boss, relishing every step. He pinches girls on their cheeks, slaps high fives with both boys and girls, greeting most by name.

"That a new hairdo, Tanya?" he asks one girl. "I like it. You're looking like a stone fox." "Give...

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