WASHINGTON — U.S. Education Secretary John King sent a letter to governors and school leaders in North Carolina and South Carolina, asking for an end to the hitting and paddling of students.
He wrote that corporal punishment is harmful and ineffective, and can lead to long-term mental-health issues.
North Carolina and South Carolina are two of 22 states that still allow corporal punishment, whether it be paddling, spanking or hitting the students.
King said statistics show it doesn’t improve student performance or change unwanted behaviors.
He also said it’s used disproportionately against students of color or kids with disabilities.
His letter said in part, “This practice has no place in the public schools of a modern nation that plays such an essential role in the advancement and protection of civil and human rights.”
King said he often hears from people who argue that physical discipline is a traditional child-rearing practice that has always been used in schools.
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