The Sexual Factor, By Jordan Riak, Exec. Dir., PTAVE, Letter to The Clarion-Ledger, July 14, 2008

There is one factor in the school corporal punishment debate that has been overlooked or avoided -- the sexual factor. I believe it warrants inclusion. Parents should ask themselves: "Do I know who's spanking my child?" The following anecdote, based on actual events, is illustrative.

MALE TEACHER: You know the rules. The dress code is clear. Girls' skirt hemlines may not be higher than midway on the kneecap. If I can see more than half a kneecap, you're in violation. And I can see more than half a kneecap. So, you have a choice. It's either a three-day in-school suspension -- that means zeros on all tests, class work and homework during those three days -- or I can just close the office door and you can bend over and take three quick swats with the paddle. The choice is yours. Will it be swats or suspension? Come on. Make up your mind. Don't keep me waiting all day.

FEMALE STUDENT: Yessir.



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