End corporal punishment, which is still legal in schools in 20 states

I remember many things from when I was in elementary school in Colorado. One thing in particular, was the buzz of fear around any minor infraction that might result in a trip to the principal's office. There, in Mr. J's office, hanging on the wall was a wooden paddle. It wasn't in a frame, or on display for nostalgic reasons. It hung there, easily accessible, for punishment.

That was back in the late 1970's and seems ancient these days amid all of the fear of what is or is not politically correct. Imagine my surprise then, when I learned corporal punishment in schools, with a paddle, belt or strap, is still legal in 20 U.S. states.

According to reports, the numbers are staggering, with more than 200,000 kids hit in schools in 2007. Turns out, 150 years after the first state banned such actions, the matter is being brought to the congressional floor to follow suit. U. S. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy (D-N.Y.) is sponsoring legislation to end abuse in schools in all 50 states.

"Hitting children does not make them feel safe in school," McCarthy said in her opening statement of a congressional hearing on the issue, held April 15. She added, "Hitting children makes them feel humiliated, helpless, depressed, and angry."

Several expert witnesses in education and psychology testified at the hearing.

I, for one, can't believe corporal punishment is still allowed in schools as an accepted form of discipline. Physical abuse of any kind or severity is outlawed in prisons, jails and medical facilities. It is unfathomable to me that kids don't have the same federal protection.

It's about time.

April Scarlett is a freelance writer. Find her work at www.fromherdesk.com, www.successfulwomenweekly.com, www.aprilscarlettwrites.blogspot.com, www.aprilscarlettmotherboard.blogspot.com, www.positivelyaprilscarlett.blogspot.com, on Facebook search ASW-April Scarlett Writes and on Twitter @ajscarlett.