BULLYING: Time for consequences

This is in response to recent columns by Bill Rutherford promoting community meetings to discuss the issue of bullying in Coeur d’Alene District schools; my attendance at one of those meetings; and Bill’s column, “Discipline Requires Consistency.”

My concern throughout has been the need for clear and effective consequences. This concern was echoed by a mother at the meeting whose young daughter had experienced a death threat. My heart really goes out to that parent and child. I can’t imagine such a thing.

I read recently that, on average, 160,000 children in the U.S. will skip school each day because of bullying. So, what ACTION is being taken? The meetings are fine for general information and raising awareness. But the district must move swiftly to establish consequences which will be communicated forcefully to stop and prevent the evil of bullying.

At the meeting, I told the district superintendent that I would add my voice to the mix. As a retired school administrator, I have dealt with extreme situations which have required extreme discipline measures. One of the tools I had in private schools was the paddle which I realize is viewed with disdain in our current so called enlightened education circles of today.

But since corporal punishment is not an option, what can be done short of expulsion or calling law enforcement, both of which can actually make the situation off campus more dangerous? Bullying must get the full attention of the superintendent’s office in conjunction with the school principal and the parents of both the perpetrator and victim. All students and parents must become convinced that the schools will not tolerate this evil.

The bully must be quarantined totally for a number of days which will be doubled if there is a repeat offense. The principal must attend to the student personally so that all who hear about it become convinced that it is deadly serious. The student will spend the days next to the principal’s office, working on their studies, bringing their lunch, and have the use of the staff restroom. The only transportation to and from school is with parents who deliver and pick the student up at the principal’s office, no phone calls or social media is allowed at home, or attendance at any school activities.

Finally, there needs to be apologies and reconciliation under the leadership of the principal, school counselor and both sets of parents.

JIM KORVER

Post Falls