(Letter to the Editor - Graphic Illustration/MetroCreativeConnection)

I enjoyed the recent op-ed by Dr. Welker, retired educator. While I don’t know him, I can fully empathize with his concerns about the problems in schools today.

I do not remember any college instructor ever mentioning how to control an elementary classroom. As Dr. Welker notes, they do not teach how to control a class because they have never done it. Their entire life has been in academia. As Dr. Welker further noted, quality teaching and learning cannot take place unless strong classroom control exists.

My father, who retired from Wood County Schools, told me before I started teaching that Thanksgiving was too late to control your classroom. It begins with Day 1. I have often said that to control a class; do not try to emulate Donny Osmond. Don’t smile too much. Just remember that students are not your friends or peers. You can be friendly without being their buddy. You are the teacher and you decide what happens in the classroom. It is not a democracy. The teacher decides and that is what he/she is paid for.

I also retired from Wood County Schools after 35 years; including 27 years as a 5th grade teacher and 8 years as an assistant principal and principal. I remember when corporal punishment was in force and I remember when it disappeared. When it was in force, it was not fun to administer, but sometimes it was necessary. It is not an easy decision to make, but one that works.

One concern I had when (CP) was eliminated, the same offenses then would get no punishment. Student fights … nothing done.

I believe there is a direct correlation between the lack of classroom discipline and test scores. On the state tests in W.Va., we seem to think it is great if our class exceeds the state level. For example, if the state has 45% proficiency in math, and our class achieves 47% that is a reason to boast. Really? You still have 53% who are not proficient. Is that something to be proud of?

Also, notice if a school has National Distinguished School or something similar on the front of the building. Do you notice it has no year with that title? Is it a perpetual award and valid forever? Just ask what year it was for and see what they say.

Robert Sadler

Marietta