Reporter’s Note
While relaxing at home or on vacation during this week’s fall break, check out the Times Free Press’ brand-new, redesigned website! View it on your mobile device, check out our special projects section and even send in your own story ideas.
– Meghan
THIS WEEK IN EDUCATION NEWS
Students cursing out teachers?
A teacher hit in the face?
Teachers quitting because they don’t feel supported?
Classroom behavior out of control?
Rumors have been flying about student behavior and disciplinary problems inside Hamilton County Schools this school year.
Fueled by opinion columns from local media personalities and school board members’ public emails asking for feedback, school leaders are arguing whether the problems stem from the new Code of Acceptable Behavior and Discipline launched this school year or a lack of support resources for students in county schools.
Superintendent Bryan Johnson and members of his staff say change takes time, but also attest that discipline rates are on par with those last year.
School board member Rhonda Thurman, chairwoman of the discipline policy committee, is calling for change, though. She also says students who don’t want to learn should be tossed out of the schoolhouse.
When students, teachers and district personnel return from this week’s fall break, the Hamilton County Board of Education will meet for a special-call session of the discipline committee ahead of the Monday, Oct. 14, agenda session.
Until then, if you are a teacher or district official and would like to share your experiences inside Hamilton County’s classrooms, reach out via email to mmangrum@timesfreepress.com or call 423-757-6592.