When Did We Say It Was OK?

My VieW

In education, we find ourselves at a crossroads, asking ourselves: When did we say it was OK? “It” refers to the normalization of extreme student behaviors in our schools, threatening our profession’s foundation.

Superintendents, administrators and teachers are witnessing escalating violence and destruction in classrooms. Physical assaults on staff — being kicked, punched, sworn at or threatened — have become disturbingly common.

Schools have become the default placement for kids with complex needs, not because they are equipped but because they are public institutions designed to welcome all.