In a recent NPR segment titled “The Deep-Rooted Nature of Corporal Punishment in Schools,” alarming statistics were presented that reveal the ongoing use of corporal punishment in American education. According to a report by Education Week, during the 2013-2014 academic year, approximately 110,000 students across the country experienced physical discipline, particularly in states like Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas, where this practice continues to be prevalent.
As a 34-year-old who grew up in a conservative environment in Utah during the 1980s, I had assumed that paddling as a disciplinary measure was a relic of the past. However, my realization came as a shock while listening to the segment on my way to work, discovering that not only is paddling still legal, but it is also practiced in both elementary and high schools.
As a father of three, I recognize that many parents may still share my previous belief. For those unfamiliar with the customs of the South, I recall a childhood story—likely by Mark Twain—where a child faced paddling, accompanied by classroom discussions about how such practices had faded away. The NPR report elaborated on the controversial nature of corporal punishment, noting that in many cases, it occurs with parental consent. A prominent example highlighted was Robbinsville High School in North Carolina, where Principal John Thompson remains the only high school leader in the state who administers corporal punishment, always with parental approval.
Shocking Scenarios
Imagine this: students aged 15 to 18 being summoned to the principal’s office for minor infractions. One example involved a sophomore whose phone rang during class, leading to the choice between paddling or in-school suspension. This scenario raises eyebrows, almost akin to someone in 2017 being penalized for operating a horse and buggy on a modern highway. Shockingly, a young girl opted for paddling, with her father stating, “Just paddle her because down here in the mountains, we do it the old-school way.”
Rather than labeling this father as a poor guardian or dismissing the practices at this North Carolina high school as archaic, I leave that judgment to the reader. It’s crucial to acknowledge that most American schools have evolved beyond such punitive methods. Contrary to sensational narratives propagated by some media outlets, our society has not descended into chaos akin to a scene from “Lord of the Flies.”
The Argument for Corporal Punishment
It is important to note that Principal Thompson argues for the benefits of corporal punishment, asserting that a revival of such practices could lead to improved societal behavior. This perspective stands in stark contrast to a wealth of scientific research indicating that corporal punishment correlates with increased dropout rates, higher incidences of mental health issues, and a greater likelihood of future violence.
While it’s a positive aspect that parental consent is required for corporal punishment, the fact remains that if a school administrator sought permission to paddle my child, my response would unequivocally be “no.” I would consider taking immediate action, such as filing a complaint or relocating my family to a different school district. Unfortunately, for some families, particularly in rural Southern areas, alternatives may be limited. For those in such situations, it is vital to clearly communicate that no one is authorized to physically discipline their children.
Advocacy for Change
In December, numerous organizations, including the National PTA and the American Academy of Pediatrics, collectively advocated for the cessation of corporal punishment. Their letter emphasized the importance of replacing harmful practices with positive, research-supported policies to ensure students have access to a safe and high-quality education. Like these advocates, I firmly believe that corporal punishment should be considered a relic of the past.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, the practice of corporal punishment in schools, particularly in certain regions, must be critically examined and ultimately abolished, as it has no place in modern education.
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