by T. M. Beeker

Created on: January 14, 2007   Last Updated: April 25, 2007

I teach Middle School and one of the most important jobs I have is to be cognizant of my student's health and well-being. Now in terms of discipline I use the tried and true method of never disciplining when I am angry. The key is realizing you're dealing with a child. Many people make the mistake of assuming they are dealing with miniature adults. No! These are children even if they are over six feet tall with facial hair.

I use experiences learned from my Drill Instructors, my Parents, and from other teachers and with that I developed sort of a 10 commandments of Discipline;

I. Don't correct a child when your angry.

II. Ask before you act.

III. Discipline should match teaching.

IV. When in doubt write it down.

V. Respect give it and demand it.

VI. Never use violence.

VII. Praise publicly.

VIII. Correct privately (when possible).

IX. If all else fails seek help.

X. Love.

These are simplified but hopefully easy to understand. I have been a leader of a crew on a drilling rig and Marines in combat. I understand how personalities and people mix, there is always going to be conflict. It is the nature of human interaction. Limited resources and time versus unlimited wants and needs.

With my students its a challenge. There are 153 students I see everyday. In classes ranging from 23 to 32 per class. Discipline is a challenge because of the time and group constraints. Am I good at it? Well, that is a matter for the kids to decide. I try to be dispassionate when I correct and fair to all students. I avoid lying to save feelings or sugar coat things because frankly, kids get way to much of that.

Now, that is my take on discipline. As far as abuse, I have seen lots of it. Kids who are bruised and battered by parents who themselves are only children. Emotional and verbal abuse is most common in kids are constantly angry or afraid. One does not realize the damage words have on a child, even one who seems indifferent to it. I took and oath to protect the weak and innocent as a Marine. That carries on as a Teacher.

The heated debate over society swinging too far to the left over what is discipline vs. abuse is nothing new. We as American seem hell bent on seeking one extreme or the other, instead of moderation. My definition of abuse is this, anything that causes damage to a child. Now, a pop on the fanny works better than 'dialog' with a three year old. If it leaves a mark well you hit too hard. Again don't correct when your angry.

This debate like parenting is a matter of balance between

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