Miscalculations Have Hindered School Environment

This is the second in a series of Woodshed articles.  Back in the 70’s – 80’s, most school districts had corporal punishment in their discipline code. It was a  period when three major miscalculations were made that would change the learning environment and building atmosphere in schools throughout the land, forever.

The first error in judgment came with the acceptance of  Dr. Spock’s theory that corporal punishment could be replaced by “time-outs” and “take-aways,”  and be just as effective. “A young person’s self esteem could be damaged forever,” he claimed. Enabling parents and “wannabe” progressive educators thought this was a good idea... and the lobbying began.

 Like true politicians, our state leaders dodged the bullet by passing the buck and the decision to local boards of education.  Boards of Education wanting to be on the “cutting edge” of education caved into the pressure, thereby committing the second oversight. There are still a few schools in Ohio using corporal punishment (sparingly), but only with parental permission. Our current governor wants to abolish it once and for all.

A third gaffe was permitting students and parents to be on equal ground with teachers and support staff in dealing with discipline issues. They found themselves negotiating consequences with kids crying “wolf” and running home to complain. Complaints to the principal, superintendent and board members have become commonplace. The democratic process has cut deeply into the ability to change student behavior.

Building principals operate under the 80-20 rule. They spend 80% percent of their time disciplining 20% of the students. In schools with 25-35%, it becomes tough to promote learning and a positive school climate. Many inner-city school districts face this dilemma today.  We still have schools in the 90% positive range with self-disciplined and respectful students… and that’s a good thing.  They come from homes where parents set high standards, expectations and perhaps have a woodshed.

We’ve tied the hands of teachers and administrators and placed a heavy sandbag on their shoulders, thus limiting options to correcting behavior. Then we stand back and have the audacity to give them credit for, “kids being out of control today!” Hogwash! It’s difficult dealing with youth who don’t know right from wrong, are disobedient, disrespectful and don’t want be held accountable. It’s easy to understand why some teachers become disenchanted and frustrated and others won’t enter the profession.

I don’t know of anybody who got into education because they disliked kids. Most feel they can overcome obstacles and make a difference.  Misdirected youth are demonstrating unacceptable behavior in the home, school and on the streets. It’s obvious some haven’t received the nurturing and guidance they need. To be continued