corporal punishment

Ashjoe, Basically, teachers no longer have any so-called "powers" to misuse in this day and time. And, if they do...well, you surely have read about them or heard about them on the media. Abuse is everywhere, unfortunately....we live in a very confused world where any and everything can and does happen. As for our children, they are learning much more from TV than anywhere. This is an "anything goes" type of thinking and it is not the most wholesome.

I have been a teacher for over 30 years and there was a day that corporal punishment was allowed and effective, in my opinion. I did spank many children but I did not do it out of anger or hatred. I loved and still love all of my students, no matter what problems of disobedience they might have. Parents have always trusted me and knew that I would not ever harm their child. However, these days are different, teachers can definitely get "out of hand" and hurt children (as we all know from the media). I am not even sure that I want my granddaughter in public school when she is ready for that. Not only do teachers have scary personal issues of their own....but many are not even qualified to teach the academics that I feel are important. Education has reached such a low level that I fear for those young qualified teachers entering our profession. Back to the corporal issue....please understand that I never once used this form of discipline without first speaking with my student. I also made sure that he/she understood that I cared enough to discuss any and every problem that they needed addressed. I also,did, and still give them my home phone number to use at any time that they needed me. I do not know any other teachers in my school who give out home phone numbers. Most do not want or care to be bothered at home. I have also taught in a wide variety of socio-economic situations...from the very poor, the very wealthy, private, public, inner-city, and the backwoods of Tennessee. I am not predjudiced, in the least, I love all children and I am there for them at any time...day or night. SO? Although, corporal punishment is no longer an option for teachers....is it worse than being ignored or mentally abused by an angry teacher? I think not. In the 70's when I started teaching....and needed to spank....I believe my students and I both came to an understanding quickly and, immediately returned to the business of learning. They knew and still know I cared. I cared enough to show them in a quick, swift way that disobedient would not be tolerated in my classroom. They even still keep in contact with me and thank me for the education I gave them!