Dear Editor, Two articles published in your newspaper last week
referred to perceived harsh treatment of two students in our public
schools.
Dear Editor,
Two articles published in your newspaper last week referred to perceived harsh treatment of two students in our public schools. I feel it is necessary to respond on behalf of the students, parents and teachers who rarely have a voice – the silent majority.
The school district has a zero tolerance policy for physical contact and harassment (including verbal) which is clearly defined in the “Code of Conduct” distributed to all families annually. Occasionally, teachers have to restrain students who break this regulation as they may endanger themselves or other students. If the administration at each site addresses the infraction immediately and consistently, the school inevitably becomes a safe, happy environment for all.
The two incidents mentioned last week present a one-sided account, and infer that the staff was insensitive. Unfortunately, this reflects poorly on those involved and, perhaps, there is another side to the story.
Students require clearly defined expectations. The majority of whom, and their parents, accept the consequences of any misdemeanors, as these mirror societies’ laws beyond the halls of learning. In loco parentis necessitates that schools provide as much protection as possible for the members of the student body. From my observation, the faculty in our district provides excellent service in this regard. None of us are perfect, but, clearly, the intention is to serve with the best interest of all – sometimes in very difficult circumstances.
After teaching for 40 years, I see that society demands so much more of our schools and teachers these days. Occasionally, there may be an over-reaction to an incident, but isn’t that better than no action at all?
David A. Ross, Morgan Hill
