A call to teachers who stay silent on zero tolerance policies towards self-defense
To all teachers out there: if you’ve witnessed a bullied student standing up for themselves and chose not to advocate for them due to a misguided zero-tolerance policy, it’s time for a serious reflection. In this situation, you are complicit as a bystander and should consider whether you truly belong in this profession.
I get it—rules are often beyond your control, and disciplinary measures may not be in your hands. But if a student faces consequences for defending themselves and you remain silent, you are failing them. Your silence speaks volumes, and it’s time to act or step aside.
I haven’t been in a school setting for some time, and I can’t say I’ve been in a physical altercation myself. However, I’ve witnessed students who are more than capable of standing up for themselves refuse to do anything because they’re afraid of the repercussions. If you don’t advocate for that student, you’re merely standing on the sidelines.
And to those who create or enforce these policies at schools—your stance is misdirected and needs to be re-evaluated.
To the naysayers defending this policy: I hope it never happens, but if your child were the one being bullied, I have no doubt your perspective would shift drastically.
I understand your frustration and the passion behind your message. It’s clear that you care deeply about the well-being of students and their right to defend themselves. Zero tolerance policies can often feel rigid and unfair, especially when they overlook context and the complexities of bullying situations.
Teachers play a crucial role in advocating for their students, and when they fail to speak up against injustice, it can create a sense of helplessness among students. It’s important for educators to find ways to support students while navigating the rules set by their institutions. While it’s not always easy to challenge established policies, there’s value in teachers creating a culture of empathy and understanding.
Your call for teachers to take a stand is compelling, and it highlights a critical conversation about how we can better protect students and create safer school environments. It’s essential for all stakeholders—teachers, administrators, and policymakers—to engage in ongoing discussions about the impact of these policies and seek meaningful solutions that prioritize student safety and well-being. Thank you for bringing attention to this important issue.