WHEREAS, corporal punishment is defined as the intentional infliction of physical pain for purposes of stopping or preventing misbehavior, and

WHEREAS, corporal punishment in schools is disproportionately used on African-American children, and

WHEREAS, anger and violence can get out of control with corporal punishment causing injuries such as bleeding, bruises, and broken bones, and

WHEREAS, corporal punishment conveys a message to children that violence is an acceptable method for dealing with conflict, and

WHEREAS, overwhelming evidence suggests that other methods of discipline work better like setting reasonable rules and standards, correcting children in a respectful, non-violent and consistent manner, praise and reward for appropriate behavior.

WHEREAS, all children deserve to be able to learn in a safe and supportive learning environment free from corporal punishment.

NOW, THEREFORE, we urge all school boards to ban corporal punishment and we urge state legislators in all states allowing its use to pass legislation ending school corporal punishment.

SIGNATORIES

Compiled by Dr. Alvin Poussaint and EPOCH-USA (End Physical Punishment of Children), Columbus, OH 43215, Nadine Block Co-Chair www.stophitting.org