Periodic
Straightening of the Spine May be Needed?
How much better could academically motivated students
perform if more time was devoted to them instead of on dysfunctional
students? The upside of this concern is that academically motivated
students can benefit socially from being in the same environment with
them. Learning to cope with and function beside these individuals gives
them a broader base of understanding about what they’ll face in the real
world.
Thinking children can be sheltered from “unpleasantries”
in life is a case of wearing blinders. Granted, children can attend
private schools where students are focused on learning. Something could
be said for being part of an environment where students are challenged
to overcome negative influences. Children associate with other students
who have similar likes/dislikes and interests. The talented “hang out”
with other talented students and avoid the less motivated. Interaction
within a student body consisting of all socioeconomic levels, interests
and cultures, prepares them to deal with real life situations. Some will
disagree here, you decide.
If teachers and the building principal don’t set an
acceptable tone of behavior and “straighten the spines,” of the unruly,
the result is a negative building atmosphere. “There is only one way to
end poverty, reduce crime, cure illness, ensure peace and create
opportunity. That one single way is EDUCATION.” (Cliff Alexander). The
message should be clear, “Education is important, come to school and
give your best effort, everyday.” The actions of a few cannot be
permitted to impact the image of the whole. Without an effective plan
and enforcement strategy, the community begins to wonder, “What’s going
on in our schools, who is in charge?”
If you wish to disagree that the ability to control
disengaged students has been compromised, that’s all right. In some
circles, any attempt to change behavior with the slightest contentious
method would be viewed as unacceptable. They would say children don’t
need harsh measures to demonstrate appropriate behavior. I would agree.
I also believe some children could benefit from a periodic
“straightening of the spine,” especially those shortchanged on basic
values and common decency. How else are they to learn? They’ve obviously
missed out on the influence of positive role models. If you’ve never had
to contend with a kid who is, “out of control,” then it’s difficult to
comprehend the benefit of firm measures. It’s hard to know how nasty
soap tastes, until you’ve tasted it.
Swats on the bottom or a good shaking were techniques
used in the past. Many parents still use them today. Most children on
the receiving end have turned out just fine, without damage to their
self-esteem. They have dispelled the belief some have about reciprocal
violence. Many from the “old school” would like to see a return to the
day when discipline codes had more “teeth” in them. A possible solution
to the dilemma is just ahead. Continued next week.
