February 28, 2001

Dear Mr. Riak:

Re: Corporal Punishment

Thank you very much for writing to me to express your concerns about corporal punishment in America's schools. I appreciate hearing from you and I welcome the opportunity to respond to your letter.

I agree that corporal punishment is an extreme method of discipline and that there are certainly more positive ways to influence student behavior. Our children should not be physically harmed at school or any other place. As disciplinary procedures are generally determined by local school districts, I hope you will also contact your local officials to express your objections to corporal punishment.

Once again, thanks for writing. If I can answer any additional questions you may have, I hope you will call my staff in Washington, D.C. at (202) 224-3841.

With warmest personal regards.

Sincerely yours,
[Signature]
Dianne Feinstein
United States Senator

DF:blb