Your Classroom or Their Playground: The Debate over Student Discipline in American Schools

In recent years, American schools have faced a growing debate over student discipline. Some argue that schools have become too lenient, while others believe that schools are unfairly targeting minority students. This debate has been fueled by a number of high-profile incidents, including the shooting at Columbine High School in 1999 and the protests over the zero-tolerance policies in Ferguson, Missouri, in 2014.

The issue of student discipline is complex and there is no easy solution. Schools must balance the need to maintain order and safety with the need to protect students' rights and to create a positive learning environment. This article will explore the history of student discipline in the United States, the current state of affairs, and the various perspectives on this issue.

Your Classroom or Their Playground: Classroom Management Observations and Conversations for the New Teacher

by Iantha Ussin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1623 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	170 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	312 pages
Item Weight	:	12.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.87 x 0.78 x 8.27 inches

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Historical Overview of Student Discipline

The history of student discipline in the United States is a long and complex one. In the early days of American education, schools were often harsh and authoritarian. Corporal punishment was common, and students were expected to obey their teachers without question.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, progressive educators began to challenge traditional methods of discipline. They argued that schools should be more child-centered and that discipline should be based on positive reinforcement rather than punishment.

The progressive movement had a significant impact on student discipline in the United States. Corporal punishment became less common and schools began to use more positive approaches to discipline, such as rewards and praise.

However, in the 1970s, there was a backlash against progressive education. Some educators argued that schools had become too lenient and that students were not being held accountable for their behavior.

This backlash led to a return to more traditional methods of discipline, such as corporal punishment and zero-tolerance policies. Zero-tolerance policies require schools to impose harsh punishments for even minor infractions.

The Current State of Student Discipline

The current state of student discipline in the United States is a mixed one. Some schools have adopted more progressive approaches to discipline, while others have retained more traditional methods.

According to a 2018 study by the Center for American Progress, the use of corporal punishment in schools has declined significantly in recent years. However, the study also found that students of color are disproportionately likely to be suspended or expelled from school.

The issue of school discipline is particularly contentious in communities of color. Many parents and community members believe that schools are unfairly targeting minority students.

For example, a 2016 study by the University of California, Los Angeles, found that black students are three times more likely to be suspended from school than white students.

Perspectives on Student Discipline

There are a variety of perspectives on the issue of student discipline. Some people believe that schools should be more lenient and that students should not be punished for minor infractions.

Others believe that schools need to be more strict and that students need to be held accountable for their behavior. Still others believe that the focus should be on creating positive school climates where students feel safe and supported.

There is no easy solution to the issue of student discipline. Schools must balance the need to maintain order and safety with the need to protect students' rights and to create a positive learning environment.

The debate over student discipline in American schools is likely to continue for many years to come. There is no easy solution to this complex issue. Schools must balance the need to maintain order and safety with the need to protect students' rights and to create a positive learning environment.

One important step is to collect more data on student discipline. This data can help us to better understand the problem and to develop more effective solutions.

Another important step is to involve all stakeholders in the discussion about student discipline. This includes students, parents, teachers, administrators, and community members.

By working together, we can create schools where all students feel safe, supported, and respected.

References

• The School Discipline Gap: How Race and Poverty Influence Student Outcomes
• Black students three times more likely to be suspended from school than white students

Your Classroom or Their Playground: Classroom Management Observations and Conversations for the New Teacher

by Iantha Ussin

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1623 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	170 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Paperback	:	312 pages
Item Weight	:	12.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5.87 x 0.78 x 8.27 inches

FREE