– Virtual Learning becomes a new form of discipline in St. Louis.
– A seventh grader’s history of class disruption leads to numerous suspensions.
– Concerned grandparent, Ventrese Curry, voices worries about the educational impact.
Disciplinary Shift to Digital Instruction
St. Louis seems to officially acknowledge every tech geek’s daydream – kids being kicked out of class and onto the internet. A recent paradigm shift noticed in one of the city’s charter schools demonstrates an innovative but arguably contentious approach towards discipline – transitioning disruptive pupils to virtual learning.
One such instance revolves around a seventh grader with a notorious record for disrupting lessons and embodying teacher-terror. After multiple suspensions, the girl’s grandparent, Ventrese Curry, becomes increasingly troubled, concerned that the detentions might be more harmful than beneficial.
E-learning: Punishment or Negligence?
What seems to have started as a solution for in-person educational hurdles amidst the pandemic, digital learning now assumes a new role in the discipline spectrum – as a punishment. Critics argue that swapping face-to-face instruction with digital learning may spark more harm, isolating students, depriving them of social skills, and exacerbating academic struggles.
The Breezy Take
While virtual learning proved invaluable during the pandemic, its emerging use as a disciplinary measure in schools is contentious. Dubbed “virtualization,” this approach varies from being an alternative to traditional discipline to a primary punitive action. The main concerns are the potential educational setbacks and the lack of transparency about its application. Balancing discipline with every student’s right to quality education remains crucial.
Original article: https://missouriindependent.com/2023/08/07/the-newest-form-of-school-discipline-kicking-kids-out-of-class-and-into-virtual-learning/