Importance of discipline and deportment in schools

THE EDITOR, Madam:

I want to highlight a growing concern about how our educated and professional community interacts with important issues of discipline and behaviour in our schools. It’s concerning to see that many only get involved in discussions about educational policies at the start of each school term. Often, they push for changes that can unintentionally harm the core values, culture, and traditions our schools have worked hard to maintain over the years.

As an experienced educator, it’s frustrating when people without direct classroom experience try to influence policies that affect our students. We need to recognise that students’ grooming habits and choices can impact their futures significantly. If we don’t instil the significance of discipline and the rule of law in them, we risk raising a generation that doesn’t value these essential societal norms.

I believe it’s crucial to cater to students’ needs instead of pushing them away or locking them out, but we also have to acknowledge when their attire strays from the established school standards. Ignoring these deviations may unintentionally promote indiscipline in schools. Instead, we should work together to create a supportive environment for our students. The saying “it takes a village to raise a child” applies here; both homes and schools need community support to effectively teach the values of conformity and discipline.

Additionally, we can’t ignore pressing concerns like tight-fitting clothing, overuse of cosmetics, and non-standard hairstyles, which can distract from a proper learning environment. Our students need to grasp the importance of uniformity and discipline in school, as these principles help prepare them to be responsible and engaged members of society.

The wider community needs to get involved and support schools in their mission to educate and guide our youth effectively. Remember, “If you don’t have anything good to say, keep silent.” Let’s aim for a collaborative effort that prioritises the well-being and future of our children.

RICARDO SMITH

Social Scientist and

Dean of Discipline