Blog 71
 

When I watched Carl Azuz, on CNN Student News this morning, presenting a principal supporting his action to post an “F list,” in a school hallway I almost froze. It was like watching a movie of teacher madness with lack of consideration for others feelings – how could it be?

CNN asked for comments:

It started with an "F list," posted in a school hallway, showing the names of middle school students who were failing a class and ineligible to go to a school dance.  Some parents thought it was a violation of their students' privacy, but the principal hoped it would motivate students to get their grades up and get off the list.

The outcome was mixed.  The list did seem to be effective; the principal estimated that in a short period of time, half of the students on the list took action to get off of it by turning in assignments and upping their grades.  But after getting complaints, the principal changed his mind, said he regretted posting the list, and took it down.

So what do you think:  Would a list like this at your school do more good, more harm, or have another mixed outcome?

Carl Azuz

My comments:                                         

I've never heard something so ridiculous that a fully grown man, in this case the principal of a school would treat students as laughing stock to other students. In some cases it may have positive results, but in the majority it would worsen the general attitude of those already struggling. It's a downright disregard for their studies because it humiliates them, and furthermore it deepens the negative learning curve for many. With all due respect the principal should be fired to set an example to others.

I'm all for discipline, but at what expense? In this scenario perhaps punishing them had the right affect to get some students to a school dance, but a list of names in front of classmates, and for the whole school to see is not my idea of motivation.